What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is a mathematical and experimental technique that is used in sciences to build a hypothesis and testing it. The core components of the scientific method, along with recommendations for podcasts, movie, book, and documentary are given here.

The scientific method is a mathematical and experimental technique that is used in sciences to build a hypothesis and testing it. You knew that, didn’t you? The goal of discovering cause and effect is central to the scientific method, and it is achieved through a flexible, iterative cycle rather than a rigid, linear set of rules. The core components of the scientific method are:

Click on the image to see a larger version, full screen. | Photo Credit: Text: A.S.Ganesh, Graphic: Prabhakaran. G

Now that you know how the scientific method works, here’s your chance to delve deeper on the subject through a medium of your choice. We’ve got a selection of two podcasts, one documentary, one book and one movie for you to choose from. Pick one or pick them all and find out how these different mediums have explored the same topic. 

Podcasts:

Curious Cases - A BBC Radio 4 science programme, Curious Cases looks to answer a question sent in by a listener by harnessing “the power of science”.  Launched in 2016, the podcast is a blend of scientific inquiry and wit, with the hosts taking on both complex themes and everyday curiosities. Initially featuring British mathematician, author, and broadcaster Hannah Fry alongside British geneticist and science communicator Adam Rutherford, the show has transitioned from the 22nd season onwards, replacing Rutherford with Irish comedian Dara O Briain. Having completed the 24th series as of 2025, the podcast has over 160 episodes across various scientific subjects. 

The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe- If you are a bookworm, you probably already know where this podcast gets its name from, don’t you? Named after The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy — a comedy science fiction franchise created by English author Douglas Adams — this weekly sceptical podcast from the U.S. is hosted by American clinical neurologist Steven Novella. Originally launched in 2005, this podcast has over 1,000 episodes on a wide range of scientific topics. In addition to discussing recent developments in the world of science, this podcast interviews authors and people in the area of science, explaining everything in a simple way with the scientific point of view at the core. The show has won awards both in the categories of science and education.