Can you explain how to find straight line equations?

Straight line equations always come in the form y=mx+c, where m is the gradient of the line (how steep it it) and c is the point where the line crosses the y axis (the y intercept).If you are given two points say 1 - (2, -4) and 2 - (6, 8) we can find the equation of the line that runs through them.First we find the gradient - this is the change in y over the change in x, (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)Here this is (8- (-4)) / (6 -2) = 12/4 = 3Next we plug this into the form of the equation and use one of the points to find ceg using point 1, -4 = 3 x 2 + cwe then re arrange -4 - 6 = cTherefore c = -10Finally we use all the values we have found to create the straight line equation,y=3 x -10

JQ
Answered by Judy Q. Maths tutor

2743 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Work out: 0.7 + 3/5


Solve, by method of substitution, the simultaneous equations: 5x+y=22 2x+y=10


A ladder 6.8m long is leaning against a wall. The foot of the ladder is 1.5m from the wall. Calculate the distance the ladder reaches up the wall.


How can you expand brackets? e.g: (x-4)(x+7)


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