Good research practices use what is called the "scientific method" for determining whether a theory or conjecture is valid, or at least has merit. It is based on evidence rather than belief.

1. Observe and describe a phenomenon or set of phenomenons.


2. Create a theory or conjecture to explain the phenomenon(s).


3. Use what is theorized to predict repeat performances of said phenomena.


4. Experiment to see whether the theory is correct by discovering whether the criteria will actually duplicate the same set of results. Properly performed experiments will have the most reliable results.

1. Define the question


2. Gather information and resources


3. Form hypothesis


4. Plan experiment


5. Do experiment and collect data


6. Analyze data


7. Interpret data and draw conclusions that serve as a starting point for new hypotheses


8. Communicate results

• If the experiments bear out the hypothesis it may come to be regarded as a theory.


• If the experiments do not bear out the hypothesis, it MUST BE REJECTED OR MODIFIED.


• The key in the description of the scientific method just given is the predictive power of the
  hypothesis or theory, as tested by experiment.

• Ignoring data which does not support the hypothesis.


• Failure to account for errors in the method used to run the experiment.


• Mistaking the hypothesis for an actual explanation, without performing proper experiments.


• Bias towards a specific result or specific set of results.

• The interviewers *really* came out of the woodwork this year. In response to many emails, I have set up my own "Press Room" section on my site. This can be found under the "about" tab.
  


• One of my articles - Maintaining Good Health - was published under the title of "Healthy Vamps" in LadyCG's book "Practical Vampyrism for Modern Vampyres". If you are interested, the book may be purchased via Amazon or other retailers, using the ISBN number 1-4116-4299-6.
  


• Another article, Grounding & Centering 101, has been accepted for the December 2005 issue of VC Magazine, and may currently be viewed here for the rest of this month. (Check the VCMagazine archives after the end of this month, and look for "December 2005".)
  


• I have also agreed to what is probably my first interview ever (and a joint interview with Memory And Dream, too) - the results can be viewed over here.