What does it mean to predict?

To predict means to say that something will happen in the future. This involves making an educated guess or inference based on current knowledge, trends, or scientific principles. Predictions are often formulated by analyzing existing data and understanding patterns, which can then inform what is expected to occur moving forward. This is a key aspect of scientific inquiry, where hypotheses are often tested to forecast future outcomes based on certain variables or conditions.

In contrast, observing and recording data refers to the collection phase of scientific research, while analyzing past events focuses on understanding what has already occurred. Drawing conclusions based on evidence is the final step in the scientific process, where results from experiments or studies are used to form assertions. Each of these actions plays a role in the broader context of scientific methodology, but they do not encapsulate the concept of predicting, which is inherently forward-looking.