Fixed vs. Random Variables

https://sassyfridays.ca/table-of-contents/fixed-vs-random-variables/

This is a topic that you will need to think about when you’re developing your models for ANOVAs. We’ll define what a fixed and a random variable are then we’ll talk about how to incorporate into a PROC GLM and a PROC MIXED.

What is a FIXED variable?
A FIXED variable is one that you have set in your experimental design. Think of this as your treatment effect(s):

diet
dilution levels
breed or variety
age group
fertilizer level
Think of it as a source of variation or an effect that is clearly defined. Another common example is SEX.

Another way of thinking about a FIXED variable, is one that you are only interested in looking at or examining its current level. So I’m only interested in fertilizers of 10, 100, and 1000. I’m only interested in diets with 2% corn, 5% corn and 8% corn. I am NOT interested in what happens betwe