Exploring the Role of Large Language Models in the Scientific Method: From Hypothesis to Discovery
Large language models (LLMs) are gradually permeating all stages of scientific research, from literature retrieval and hypothesis generation to experimental design and data analysis. Although LLMs have shown great potential in improving research productivity, their actual impact on fundamental scientific discovery remains limited. This article reviews the existing applications and future possibilities of LLMs in the scientific method, emphasizing the need to deeply integrate LLMs into the scientific process, align them with human scientific goals, and establish clear evaluation metrics.