Which of the following is NOT a step in the scientific method?

The scientific method is a systematic process used by scientists to explore observations, test hypotheses, and draw conclusions. While making observations, testing hypotheses, and making predictions are all integral parts of the method, developing conclusions is not specifically outlined as a formal step. Instead, it is a result that comes after conducting experiments and analyzing the data.

In the scientific method, after generating a hypothesis, researchers conduct experiments which include making observations and testing the hypothesis. Predictions are often created based on the hypothesis, positing what can be expected if the hypothesis is correct. Once the data from these tests is analyzed, a scientist will come to conclusions regarding the hypothesis, determining whether it was supported or refuted. Thus, developing conclusions is essentially the outcome of the entire scientific process rather than a defined step on its own.