Not true about experimental study –
**Core Concept**
Experimental studies are a type of research design used to evaluate the effect of a specific intervention or exposure on a particular outcome. These studies aim to establish causality and are often considered the gold standard in research due to their ability to minimize confounding variables and establish temporal relationships between exposure and outcome.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer will describe a characteristic that is not true about experimental studies. Experimental studies involve manipulating one or more variables to measure their effect on a specific outcome. This is typically achieved through randomization, which helps to distribute both known and unknown confounding variables evenly across study groups. The experimental group receives the intervention, while the control group does not, allowing researchers to isolate the effect of the intervention.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because experimental studies can be either prospective or retrospective, depending on when the data is collected. Experimental studies can involve both types of designs, making this statement not entirely accurate.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because experimental studies often involve control groups, which serve as a comparison to the experimental group. Control groups help to establish a baseline and provide a reference point for evaluating the effect of the intervention.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because experimental studies can be either blinded or non-blinded, depending on whether the researchers or participants are aware of the group assignments. However, blinding is a common technique used to minimize bias and ensure the integrity of the study.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because experimental studies can involve a wide range of sample sizes, from small pilot studies to large-scale randomized controlled trials. The sample size is determined by the research question and the resources available.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When designing an experimental study, researchers should carefully consider the type of study design, sample size, and control group to minimize bias and ensure the validity of the results. Randomization and blinding are essential techniques used to achieve this goal.
**Correct Answer:** Not provided