Scientists like to say that the “independent” variable goes on the x-axis (the bottom, horizontal one) and the “dependent” variable goes on the y-axis (the left side, vertical one).

Why is X the independent variable?

Independent variables are the ones we can freely manipulate, by plugging in any input value. In most math problems, we think of x as the independent variable, since it’s the one we usually change. We usually plot the independent variable on the horizontal axis of a graph (which we also call the x-axis).

Which is the dependent variable?

A dependent variable is the variable that changes as a result of the independent variable manipulation. It’s the outcome you’re interested in measuring, and it “depends” on your independent variable. In statistics, dependent variables are also called: Response variables (they respond to a change in another variable)

What does the Y variable represent?

The Y variable represents the effect or outcome in a causeand-effect relationship, whereas X usually denotes the cause or independent variable. The Y variable is generally shown on the left-hand side of regression equations; therefore, it is sometimes referred to as a left-side variable.