Which statement best defines a hypothesis in research?

A hypothesis in research serves as a specific, testable prediction that aims to answer a particular research question. By formulating a hypothesis, researchers express their expectations about the relationship between variables or the outcomes of the study, guiding the research design and analysis. This predictive statement drives the investigation, allowing researchers to test its validity through empirical methods.

In contrast, other options do not encapsulate the primary function of a hypothesis. For instance, describing the methodology pertains to outlining the research design and procedures rather than predicting outcomes. Establishing the level of evidence relates more to assessing the robustness of findings rather than hypothesizing. Lastly, summarizing existing literature involves reviewing what is already known about a topic, which does not inherently suggest a prediction or testable statement about the relationships being examined. Hence, the definition of a hypothesis as a means to answer the research question through predictive statements accurately reflects its role in the research process.