Which type of variable represents the effect(s) in a study?

In research studies, the type of variable that represents the effects or outcomes being measured is the dependent variable. This variable is dependent upon the manipulations or variations made to the independent variable(s). When researchers conduct experiments or observational studies, they often want to understand how changes in one or more independent variables influence the dependent variable. Thus, the dependent variable serves as the measure of the effect that the researchers are investigating.

For instance, if a study is examining how a new medication impacts blood pressure, the blood pressure readings would be the dependent variable, as they depend on the administration of the medication (the independent variable). It is crucial for researchers to clearly define their dependent variables so they can accurately assess and interpret the effects of their independent variables on the study's outcomes.