Answer the following question given this paragraph: 

The scientific method is not a step by step, linear process. It is a way of learning about the world through the application of knowledge. Scientists must be able to have an idea of what the answer to an investigation should be. In order for scientists to make educated guesses about the answers, they will base their guesses on previous knowledge, with the notion of extending that knowledge. Scientists will often make an observation and then form a hypothesis to explain why a phenomenon occurred. They use all of their knowledge and a bit of imagination in their journey of discovery.


Q: In the scientific method, what is the initial, unproven explanation for why something is occurring?

 Choices:

- concepts

- idea

- theories

- hypothesis

A:
hypothesis
