How do you find the gradient of a line?

There are 2 methods used for finding the gradient of a line in 2D space, depending on whether it is a straight line or a curve.
To find the gradient a straight line you must first take the equation of the line, for example and put it into the standard form for an equation of a straight line (y=mx+c) the gradient will be the value of m in this case. If you are not given the equation then you must find 2 points on the line, and find the difference between the 2 "x" values and the 2 "y" values, then divide the difference in "y" values by the difference between the "x" values.
To find the gradient of a curve you must differentiate the equation of the curve.

Answered by Maths tutor

7853 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the equation of the tangent to the circle x^2 + y^2 + 10x + 2y + 13 = 0 at the point (-3, 2)


how to derive escape velocity


Sketch the curve y = (x^2 - 9)(x - 2)


Solve the simultaneous equations: x+y =2; x^2 + 2y = 12


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning