The scientific method is the combination of observation,experimentation,and the formulation of laws,hypotheses,and theories.the method is illustrated by the flow diagram in figure1-1.scientists may develop a pattern of thinking about their field,known as paradigm.some paradigms may be successful at first but then become less so. When that happens,a new paradigm may be needed or,as is sometimes said,a"paradigm shift"occurs.l in a way,the method of inquiry that we call the scientific method is itself a paradigm,and some people feel that it,too,is in need of change. That is,the varied activities of modern scientists are more complex than the simplified description of the scientific method presented hrer.in any case,merely following a set of procedures,rather like using a cookbook,will not guarantee scientific success