This flowchart represents the process of scientific inquiry, through which we build reliable knowledge of the natural world. You can use it to trace the development of different scientific ideas and/or the research efforts of individual scientists. Most ideas take a circuitous path through the process, shaped by unique people and events.
Move your mouse pointer over the flowchart to reveal an additional level of detail. Click on items in the flowchart to get further information in Understanding Science 101.
See how actual scientific investigations have followed paths through the flowchart:
A surprising observation starts Walter Alvarez down the path to unravelling one of the great mysteries in Earth's history: read Asteroids and dinosaurs.
