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Explanatory Variables

Definition

Explanatory variables are independent variables used in statistical models or experiments to explain or predict changes in another variable. They are also known as predictor variables or factors.

Analogy

Imagine you are trying to predict how well a student will perform on a test. The explanatory variables could be the amount of time they spent studying, their sleep hours, and their stress levels. By analyzing these variables, you can explain or predict their test performance.

Related terms

Response Variable: The response variable is the dependent variable in a statistical model or experiment that is being predicted or explained by the explanatory variables.

Confounding Variables: Confounding variables are additional factors that may influence the relationship between the explanatory and response variables, making it difficult to determine causation.

Multivariable Analysis: Multivariable analysis involves examining the relationships between multiple explanatory variables and a single response variable simultaneously.