It is best to use the method of working with multiple hypotheses

The method of working with multiple hypotheses is best used while planning the research study.

Using it during the final stages is too late to shape design or data collection.

Applying it after results are established cannot influence how evidence was gathered.

Confining it to the research report reduces it to mere presentation.

Multiple working hypotheses at the planning stage guard against premature bias.

Chamberlin proposed this method to keep the mind open to rival explanations.