You cannot solve a problem until you know exactly what it is. Research the problem. A possible solution to my problem. Test the hypothesis. Perform an experiment to see if your hypothesis works.
Data are the results of an experiment.
If your hypothesis was incorrect, the experiment failed. Science For All Americans is a good online book to read. A detailed explaination of the Uncertainty in Measurement , from the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The Center for Critical Thinking will help you understand how to evaluate your learning experience. Teaching Critical Thinking and the Scientific Method at the Society for Developmental Biology.