Which variable is being predicted in a regression analysis?

In regression analysis, the variable being predicted is known as the dependent variable. This variable represents the outcome or effect that is being studied, and it depends on the values of other variables. The independent variables, on the other hand, are the predictors or explanatory variables that influence or predict the dependent variable.

By defining a dependent variable, you establish a relationship in which changes in the independent variables are posited to have an effect on the dependent variable. This relationship is fundamental to the purpose of regression analysis, which seeks to model the dependencies between variables and make predictions based on those relationships.