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In general usage, design of experiments ( DOE ) or experimental design is the design of any information-gathering exercises where variation is present, whether under the full control of the experimenter or not.

However, in statistics, these terms are usually used for controlled experiments.

Formal planned experimentation is often used in evaluating physical objects, chemical formulations, structures, components, and materials.

Other types of study, and their design, are discussed in the articles on opinion polls and statistical surveys ( which are types of observational study ), natural experiments and quasi-experiments ( for example, quasi-experimental design ).

See Experiment for the distinction between these types of experiments or studies.