What is the main purpose of conducting an experiment?

The main purpose of conducting an experiment is to measure the effects of a specific intervention. In experimental research, researchers manipulate one or more independent variables to observe the resulting changes in dependent variables. This allows for a clear determination of cause-and-effect relationships. By systematically introducing an intervention and measuring its outcomes, researchers can assess whether the intervention has a significant effect as compared to a control or baseline condition.

This method distinguishes experiments from other research designs, such as descriptive studies, which aim to describe behavior without manipulating variables or establishing causality. In contrast, an experiment's structured approach provides stronger evidence for how specific factors influence outcomes, enabling researchers to draw more definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of interventions. The clarity of measurement in experiments is essential for advancing knowledge and informing evidence-based practices in various fields.