A variable is any characteristic, factor, or condition that can take on different values or change over time, either on its own or due to external influences. Variables are fundamental in research and data analysis because they represent the elements that can be measured, manipulated, or observed.
Examples of variables include tangible things like age, temperature, income, or the number of words spoken, as well as more abstract concepts such as mood, satisfaction, or time of day. Variables can be classified in different ways, such as:
- Independent variables: those manipulated or controlled in an experiment to observe their effect on other variables.
- Dependent variables: those that are affected or measured as outcomes.
- Control variables: factors kept constant to prevent them from influencing the results.
Understanding variables and their relationships is essential for establishing causality, making predictions, and drawing meaningful conclusions in scientific studies.