What you'll learn
How psychologists design and control experiments.
Key ideas
- The independent variable (IV) is changed; the dependent variable (DV) is measured.
- A hypothesis is a precise, testable prediction.
- Experiment types: laboratory, field and natural.
- Designs: independent groups, repeated measures and matched pairs.
- Control of extraneous variables.
Exam tips
- Always operationalise the IV and DV.
- Match a design to its strengths and weaknesses.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the IV and DV.
- Mixing up experimental designs.