Question

Which are ways to improve the design of this experiment? Check all that apply.

Reduce the sample size so the experiment can be done faster.
Increase the sample size from 6 cups to 12 cups of sand and water.
Use more legible handwriting when recording data.
Use more precise digital thermometers.
Use more precise scales that measure to the hundredth of a gram.

Answer 1

Select all that apply: all except the first.

- Reduce the sample size so the experiment can be done faster. — No. Reducing sample size reduces statistical power and increases variability; it worsens the design.
- Increase the sample size from 6 cups to 12 cups of sand and water. — Yes. A larger sample size reduces random error and gives more reliable, generalizable results.
- Use more legible handwriting when recording data. — Yes. Clear records reduce transcription errors and make results easier to analyze and reproduce.
- Use more precise digital thermometers. — Yes. More precise instruments reduce measurement error and improve the quality of the data.
- Use more precise scales that measure to the hundredth of a gram. — Yes. Higher-precision scales reduce uncertainty in mass measurements (though consider cost and whether that precision is necessary for the effect size you're measuring).