Graphs the why question?

Question

Why do you have to plot independent variables on the x axis and dependent variables on the y axis? It there a good reason for it?

Answer 1

So that you can see how the y variable changes if x is kept as is.

Answer 2

somewhat arbitrary, but we have become used to graphs oriented that way, with the results in the vertical axis.

Plot one both ways and see which you prefer.

Answer 3

It is conventional to make graphs functions of X, meaning that the x-coordinate should follow a certain progression. The independent variable can be controlled, therefore it can be progressed in a specific way. The dependent variable can vary widely, and not necessarily show an even progression.

Also, most people find it more logical to think from left to right, rather than up and down, when following a progression.

It is mainly due to convention.