How does the ceteris paribus assumption affect a demand curve?

The ceteris paribus assumption, meaning "all other things being equal," simplifies the analysis of demand by isolating the relationship between price and quantity demanded. It assumes that factors other than price, such as consumer income, preferences, and the prices of related goods, remain constant. This allows the demand curve to illustrate how quantity demanded changes with price, without the influence of external variables. However, in reality, changes in these other factors can shift the demand curve itself, affecting overall market dynamics.