Lines and the Coordinate Plane: Graphing the Equation of a Line

Graphing Using Intercepts

When an equation is written in the form Ax + By = C, where A, B, and C are integers, A is positive, and A and B are not both 0, the equation is said to be in standard form.


We can use this form, as well as the other forms you learned, to graph lines using the x- and y-intercepts.

Recall that the intercepts are the points where the graph crosses the x-axis and y-axis. Also recall that the equation of the x-axis is y = 0 and the equation of the y-axis is x = 0. So, in order to find the x-intercept, we plug y = 0 into the equation and solve for x. To find the y-intercept, we plug x = 0 into the equation and solve for y.

Presentation Example: Graphing Lines Using Intercepts

Let’s work through an example of graphing a line using intercepts. Select the play button to begin the example, and then use the solve button to view the solution and use the navigation buttons to pause/stop the example. View the presentation as often as you would like, and take notes as you follow along. Be sure to set your volume at a reasonable level before you begin.

Download the activity as a PDF.