what are dependent and independent variables in a research paper
One of the key factors in this process is the identification and operational definition of variables -- traits, characteristics, or other measurable factors that can have different values -- that impact the phenomenon of interest. One is primarily interested in two types of variables: independent variables and dependent variables. The independent variable is the variable that is being manipulated by the researcher. For example, Dr. Harvey has a theory that the way that people dress affects how they are treated by others in the workplace.
The second major variable of interest to researchers is the dependent variable. The dependent variable (so called because its value depends on which level of the independent variable the subject received) is the response to the independent variable. In Dr. Harvey's research study, the dependent variable is the way that people are treated in the workplace. Dr.