randomized controlled trials (RCT)

A randomized controlled trial (RCT) is a scientific study used to determine the effectiveness of a treatment or intervention. Participants are randomly assigned to either a group that receives the treatment or a control group that does not. This randomization helps ensure that both groups are similar, reducing bias and allowing researchers to isolate the effect of the treatment. After a set period, researchers compare outcomes between the two groups. RCTs are considered the gold standard in research because they provide strong evidence about cause-and-effect relationships in medical and social sciences.