MAGIC criteria

What are the MAGIC criteria?

MAGIC is a backronym for:

1. Magnitude – How big is the effect? Large effects are more compelling than small ones.
2. Articulation – How specific is it? Precise statements are more compelling than imprecise ones.
3. Generality – How generally does it apply? More general effects are more compelling than less general ones. Claims that would interest a more general audience are more compelling.
4. Interestingness – interesting effects are those that "have the potential, through empirical analysis, to change what people believe about an important issue". More interesting effects are more compelling than less interesting ones. In addition, more surprising effects are more compelling than ones that merely confirm what is already known.
5. Credibility – Credible claims are more compelling than incredible ones. The researcher must show that the claims made are credible. Results that contradict previously established ones are less credible.