Hypotheses -- desirable characteristics

1. Should be empirical statements -- i.e., susceptible to observation. The hypotheses should not be normative.

2. A second desirable attribute of a good hypothesis is generality. It explains a general phenomenon, rather than a single occurrence.

3. A good hypothesis should be plausible - it shouldn't defy logic.

4. A good hypothesis is specific, meaning that the concepts are carefully defined.

5. And finally, a good hypothesis must be testable, and it cannot be a tautology.