In a graph that shows how a result changes with a factor, which variable is typically plotted on the y-axis?

• A. Independent variable
• B. Dependent variable
• C. Control variable
• D. Time

Answer: (B)

The y-axis shows the result you’re measuring—the outcome that depends on the factor you’re changing. When you vary a factor, the thing that changes in response is the dependent variable, so it’s plotted on the vertical axis. The factor itself, which you control, sits on the x-axis as the independent variable. Control variables are kept constant and aren’t what you’re measuring. Time could appear on an axis if you’re specifically looking at changes over time, but for a general setup where a result changes with a factor, the outcome is on the y-axis.