Independent Variable

Definition

The independent variable is the factor in an experiment that a researcher manipulates to see if it has any effect on the outcome.

Related terms

Manipulated Variable: This is another term for independent variable, referring to the element that is changed or controlled in an experiment.

Control Group:

This is a group in an experiment that does not receive treatment by researchers and is then used as a benchmark to measure how other tested subjects do.

Experimental Group: This group receives the treatment or manipulation from researchers in an experiment.