What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is best defined as a systematic approach to problem-solving. This process involves a series of steps that scientists follow to investigate natural phenomena, develop hypotheses, conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions. By adhering to this structured methodology, scientists are able to ensure that their findings are based on empirical evidence and can be replicated by others, which is essential for the advancement of scientific knowledge.

The other choices, while related to scientific inquiry, do not encapsulate the broad scope and essential purpose of the scientific method. For instance, evaluating data is just one aspect of the scientific process, as it comes after the data collection phase. Similarly, collecting samples is a specific activity that may occur during experimentation but does not represent the entirety of problem-solving processes in science. Lastly, a style of scientific writing pertains to how scientific results are communicated, rather than how scientific inquiry and investigation are conducted.