A hypothesis cannot be stated in

A hypothesis cannot be stated in vague, general terms because it must be precise and testable.

Declarative terms give a clear affirmative statement of expected relationship, a valid form.

Null form asserts no relationship or difference between variables, also acceptable.

Directional terms predict the specific direction of the relationship, equally valid.

Vagueness prevents operational definition and empirical testing.

A usable hypothesis must specify the variables and the expected link between them.