What Are 3 Types of Variables?

When it comes to conducting experiments, it is important to understand the three main types of variables: independent, dependent, and controlled. Each of these variables plays a critical role in the research process and can have a significant impact on the results of an experiment. In this article, we will discuss what each of these variables is and how they can be used to help researchers gain valuable insights into their research.

What Is an Independent Variable?

An independent variable is a variable that is manipulated by the researcher in order to observe the effects it has on the dependent variable. The independent variable is also known as the predictor variable or the manipulated variable. It is the variable that the researcher changes in order to observe the effects it has on the dependent variable.

For example, if a researcher wanted to study the effects of exercise on weight loss, the independent variable would be the amount of exercise that the participants engage in. The researcher would manipulate the amount of exercise that the participants engage in and then observe the effects it has on their weight loss.

What Is a Dependent Variable?

A dependent variable is a variable that is affected by the independent variable. It is also known as the outcome variable or the responding variable. It is the variable that is affected by the manipulation of the independent variable.

Continuing with the example of the effects of exercise on weight loss, the dependent variable would be the amount of weight loss that the participants experience. The researcher would observe the amount of weight loss that the participants experience after they have engaged in different amounts of exercise.

What Are Controlled Variables?

Controlled variables are variables that are kept constant throughout the experiment. They are also known as extraneous variables or confounding variables. It is important to keep these variables constant in order to ensure that the results of the experiment are not affected by other factors.

For example, if a researcher wanted to study the effects of exercise on weight loss, the controlled variables would be the amount of food that the participants eat and the amount of sleep that they get. The researcher would keep these variables constant throughout the experiment in order to ensure that the results of the experiment are not affected by other factors.

How Do Independent, Dependent, and Controlled Variables Work Together?

Independent, dependent, and controlled variables work together to help researchers gain valuable insights into their research. The independent variable is manipulated by the researcher in order to observe the effects it has on the dependent variable. The dependent variable is then observed to see how it is affected by the manipulation of the independent variable. Finally, the controlled variables are kept constant throughout the experiment in order to ensure that the results of the experiment are not affected by other factors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, independent, dependent, and controlled variables are three main types of variables that are used in experiments. The independent variable is manipulated by the researcher in order to observe the effects it has on the dependent variable. The dependent variable is then observed to see how it is affected by the manipulation of the independent variable. Finally, the controlled variables are kept constant throughout the experiment in order to ensure that the results of the experiment are not affected by other factors. By understanding and utilizing these three types of variables, researchers can gain valuable insights into their research.