Some say science is what follows or adheres to the Scientific Method; otherwise, it is pseudoscience. It is like saying cooking is what follows the cooking method. Is it not a circular definition or argument?
In reality, science comes first. The “Scientific Method” comes after; it is a derivative of or dependent on science.
(Actual) science means studying chemistry, physics, and mathematics in significant detail. One studies science and then develops its methods (for understanding and extending scientific concepts) using scientific principles, which become true scientific methods. Therefore, one must first study science (chemistry, physics, and mathematics) to develop and deal with scientific methods.
On the other hand, people who do not study science but like to promote themselves as scientists/researchers promote a made-up definition of science based on the so-called “Scientific Method,” bypassing the requirements or needs of science or its study – clever! In this case, there is no need to know or understand science but to keep lecturing others about science. It’s a typical scam/con trick to consider oneself a scientist/researcher (i.e., without studying science). This is how many non-science experts became scientists/researchers. The issue is more visible in medicine and biology (such as virology, immunology, microbiology, etc).
Be vigilant about this con artistry or fake science promotion. If you like to know about actual science, look for people who studied and specialized in science subjects – chemistry, physics, and mathematics. More here.