Which variable is typically affected by the independent variable?

Which variable is typically affected by the independent variable?

• A. Independent variable
• B. Dependent variable
• C. Control variable
• D. Moderator variable

Answer: (B)

In experiments, the independent variable is what you deliberately change to test its effect, and the dependent variable is the outcome you measure to see that effect. The variable typically affected by the independent variable is the dependent variable because its value changes in response to the manipulation. For example, if you vary the amount of study time (independent variable), the exam score (dependent variable) may change as a result. Other factors you keep constant are control variables, designed to prevent alternative explanations. A moderator variable, meanwhile, can influence how strong or in what way the relationship appears, but it’s not the primary outcome that changes directly due to the manipulation. So the outcome you observe that reflects the impact of the manipulation is the dependent variable.

In experiments, the independent variable is what you deliberately change to test its effect, and the dependent variable is the outcome you measure to see that effect. The variable typically affected by the independent variable is the dependent variable because its value changes in response to the manipulation. For example, if you vary the amount of study time (independent variable), the exam score (dependent variable) may change as a result. Other factors you keep constant are control variables, designed to prevent alternative explanations. A moderator variable, meanwhile, can influence how strong or in what way the relationship appears, but it’s not the primary outcome that changes directly due to the manipulation. So the outcome you observe that reflects the impact of the manipulation is the dependent variable.