Consider the following statements: this step is probably the most critical part of the planning process; these stated research questions provide the basis for design and data analysis; and this step guides the researcher's decision whether to go for an experimental design or some other orientation. These statements reflect

The most critical planning step that grounds design and analysis and guides the choice of approach is the hypothesis.

A literature survey reviews existing work rather than steering the design decision.

Research design is the plan shaped by the hypothesis, not the step described.

Deciding the research topic comes earlier and is broader.

A clear hypothesis frames the research questions to be answered.

It also determines whether an experimental design fits.