Does leaving a light on at night deter burglars?

In the realm of home security, many homeowners often wonder if leaving a light on at night can serve as a deterrent for potential burglars. After all, the perception of being watched or the appearance of occupancy may discourage intruders from targeting a particular home. However, does this widely held belief actually hold true in practice? Is leaving a light on enough to keep burglars at bay, or is it merely a placebo effect? Let's delve deeper into this question and examine the various factors that could influence a burglar's decision-making process.