Idiot\'s Guides Basic Math and Pre-Algebra

Chapter 11: Coordinate Graphing 143

To draw the graph of an equation quickly, arrange the equation so that y is isolated and the x
term and constant term are on the other side. This is called y = mx + b form. The value of b
is the y-intercept of the line, and the value of m is the slope of the line. In the equation yx^1
2

 5 ,

the y-intercept is (0,-5) and the slope is

1

2.

Begin by plotting the y-intercept, then count the rise and run and plot another point. Repeat a
few times and connect the points to form a line. For the equation yx^1
2
 5 , start by plotting the
y-intercept at -5 on the y-axis, then count up 1 (the rise) and 2 to the right (the run), and place
a point. Use the slope to plot a few more points by counting up 1 and over 2 a few more times,
putting a dot each time. If any points seem out of line, double check your count. Connect the
points into a line and extend it in both directions.

-6 -2 062

-2

2

4

6

-4

-6

-8-9 -7 -5 -4 -1-3 134 5 78 9

-8

-9

-1

-3

-5

-7

8

9

1

3

5

7

-10 10

-10

10

y

x