Everyday scientists

Scientists are people who follow the scientific method to solve problems or to discover new things. But anyone who follows the scientific method is working like a scientist. You do not need a laboratory or a white coat.

The book gives three everyday examples:

• A cook wonders why the dal spilled out of the cooker. Was there too much water?
• A bicycle repair person tries to find out why a tyre is flat. From where did the air leak out?
• An electrician tries to find out why a light bulb is not working. Is the problem in the bulb, or in the switch?

Each of them asks a question and then looks for the answer by testing. If the light still does not work with a new bulb, the electrician checks the switch, then the wire. One guess at a time.

So when we ask questions and find answers, we are all, in a way, scientists. We use the scientific method in daily life, sometimes without even noticing.

The book adds that science is rarely done alone. Scientists across the world work together, often in large teams. If you cannot find an answer yourself, ask your friends to help. It is more fun to discover things together.