Identify what is being changed or controlled
Identify what is being measured or observed
The changed or controlled variable is the independent variable
The measured or observed variable is the dependent variable
Ask which variable causes the change
Ask which variable responds to the change
In an experiment, the independent variable is usually the one you manipulate
In an experiment, the dependent variable is usually the result you record
Look for the “if” part to find the independent variable
Look for the “then” part to find the dependent variable