If you conduct a study and predict that X causes Y, then X is the ____ variable.
A) internal
B) external
C) independent
D) dependent variable

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The independent variable is the one that is manipulated or changed by the researcher. In this case, X is being manipulated or changed in order to see its effect on Y. The dependent variable (D) is the one that is affected by the independent variable and is the outcome variable being measured. The other choices, internal (A) and external (B), refer to factors outside of the study or within the study that may impact results but are not specifically related to the variables being studied.

If You Conduct a Study and Predict That X Causes