6P.1—Practical problem solving

Start with a biological question, define the dependent variable and choose a method that can measure it. Identify the independent variable, controls, repeats, range and safety or welfare constraints before collecting data.

Use a control or baseline, keep confounding factors constant, record units and decide how anomalies will be handled before viewing the result.

To compare enzyme activity, measure product formation per unit time across a temperature range with the same substrate concentration and repeated trials.

A detailed apparatus list is not a valid design if the measurement cannot answer the question.