Final answer:
The scientific method is a documented methodology that provides a set of best practices for creating and maintaining knowledge.
Step-by-step explanation:
The documented methodology that provides a set of best practices for creating and maintaining knowledge is called the scientific method. This method is widely used in the field of science to gather and analyze data, test hypotheses, and draw conclusions. It involves steps such as observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis of results.
For example, in a scientific experiment, researchers make observations about a particular phenomenon, formulate a hypothesis to explain it, design and carry out experiments to test the hypothesis, collect data, analyze the results, and draw conclusions based on the evidence obtained.
By following the scientific method, scientists ensure that their knowledge is based on rigorous evidence and can be replicated and verified by others, leading to a reliable and accurate understanding of the world.