Hypothesis-based coaching worksheet

The outcome

The outcome of the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet is a repeatable path through this question: How can a coach convert observations into a testable, supportive development hypothesis? The working view makes observation, data, and pattern visible so discussion can move from general opinion to a specific action or decision.

When to run it

Run the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet when work in feedback and performance repeatedly crosses the same stages or handoffs and variation is causing delay, rework, or unclear ownership. Focus the first version on observation, data, and pattern rather than documenting every possible exception.

How the process works

The hypothesis-based coaching worksheet is a controlled sequence with explicit entry conditions, stages, handoffs, outputs, and exit criteria. Its core working elements are observation, data, pattern, and hypothesis. Those elements belong together because each changes how the others should be interpreted or acted on.

Process stages

1. Observation

Capture observation only at the level needed to answer: How can a coach convert observations into a testable, supportive development hypothesis? Use observable evidence, name any unresolved judgment, and state what action or choice this entry can change. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to data so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

2. Data

Name the evidence, its date and owner, and any limitation that affects how confidently it can be used. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to pattern so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

3. Pattern

Capture pattern only at the level needed to answer: How can a coach convert observations into a testable, supportive development hypothesis? Use observable evidence, name any unresolved judgment, and state what action or choice this entry can change. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to hypothesis so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

4. Hypothesis

Make the assumption testable, name its owner, and specify the evidence or event that could confirm or overturn it. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to confidence so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

5. Confidence

Capture confidence only at the level needed to answer: How can a coach convert observations into a testable, supportive development hypothesis? Use observable evidence, name any unresolved judgment, and state what action or choice this entry can change. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to invitation so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

6. Invitation

Capture invitation only at the level needed to answer: How can a coach convert observations into a testable, supportive development hypothesis? Use observable evidence, name any unresolved judgment, and state what action or choice this entry can change. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to experiment so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

7. Experiment

Capture experiment only at the level needed to answer: How can a coach convert observations into a testable, supportive development hypothesis? Use observable evidence, name any unresolved judgment, and state what action or choice this entry can change. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to follow-up so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

8. Follow-up

Write a concrete next action with one owner, a due date or trigger, and a visible completion condition. Within the hypothesis-based coaching worksheet, connect this entry to experiment so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.