Determine the correct sequence of the steps involved in the process of hypothesis testing:

A. Setting the null and alternative hypothesis

B. Setting the level of significance

C. Determining the appropriate statistical test

D. Setting the decision rule

E. Analyzing the collected data

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is D

The process of hypothesis testing involves the following steps:
1. Setting the Null and Alternative Hypothesis (Step A):
· The null hypothesis (H₀) assumes no significant effect or difference, while the alternative hypothesis (H₁) represents what the researcher aims to support.
2. Setting the Level of Significance (Step B):
· The significance level (α) is chosen, typically 0.05 or 0.01, indicating the probability of rejecting a true null hypothesis.
3. Determining the Appropriate Statistical Test (Step C):
· Based on the type of data and study design, an appropriate statistical test is selected, such as a t-test, chi-square test, or ANOVA.
4. Setting the Decision Rule (Step D):
· The decision rule specifies the conditions under which the null hypothesis will be rejected based on the test statistic's critical value or p-value.
5. Analyzing the Collected Data (Step E):
· The test is performed using the collected data, and the result (test statistic or p-value) is compared with the decision rule to accept or reject the null hypothesis.
Thus, the correct sequence is: A → B → C → D → E.