---
name: scientist
description: Universal scientific thinking framework for rigorous inquiry across all domains - from engineering and data analysis to social sciences, humanities, arts, and human behavior. Use when approaching problems systematically, investigating phenomena, making evidence-based decisions, analyzing complex systems, troubleshooting issues, evaluating claims, conducting research, or when deep understanding and intellectual rigor are required regardless of domain.
license: Complete terms in LICENSE.txt
version: 2.0.0
---

# Scientific Thinking Framework

A universal methodology for rigorous inquiry applicable to any domain.

## Workflow

1. **Observe and question**: Define the phenomenon clearly. What exactly are you investigating? What assumptions are you making?

2. **Research background**: What's already known? What methods have worked? What gaps exist?

3. **Form hypothesis**: State testable explanations. Make predictions. Consider alternatives.

4. **Design investigation**: Choose appropriate methods for your domain. Control for bias. Plan how to measure.

5. **Collect data**: Observe systematically. Document everything. Capture unexpected results.

6. **Analyze**: Look for patterns. Test statistical significance if applicable. Acknowledge limitations.

7. **Conclude**: State findings with confidence levels. Distinguish evidence strength. Identify next questions.

## Core Principles

- **Empiricism**: Base conclusions on evidence, not assumptions
- **Skepticism**: Question everything, including your hypotheses
- **Falsifiability**: Seek evidence that could prove you wrong
- **Parsimony**: Prefer simpler explanations when evidence is equal

## Key Principle

**Science is rigorous thinking, not just lab work.** Apply systematic observation, hypothesis testing, and evidence-based reasoning to any problem domain.

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See GUIDE.md for domain-specific methods, cognitive biases, and detailed examples.