Q:

How do I graph this equation? y = -7/3x + 2

Accepted Solution

A:
I can think of two ways to do it.

Way #1:

-- Pick a number.
   Write it in place of 'x', and calculate the value of 'y'.
   Call these 'x₁' and 'y₁'.

-- Pick another number.
   Write it in place of 'x', and calculate the value of 'y'.
   Call these 'x₂' and 'y₂'.

-- On your graph, mark little dots at the points (x₁, y₁) and (x₂, y₂).

-- With your ruler and pencil, draw a straight line between the two dots.
   Then extend it as far as you want to in each direction.

The line you drew is the graph of the equation.  
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Way #2:

-- Looking at the equation, you realize that the slope of the graph is -7/3,
   and its slope is 2 .  Use this powerful information to draw the graph.

-- Mark a little dot on the y-axis, at the point where  y = 2 .

-- From that point, move your eyes 7 units to the right, then 3 units down,
   and mark a little dot where you land.

-- With your ruler and pencil, draw a straight line between the two dots.
   Then extend it as far as you want to in each direction.

The line you drew is the graph of the equation.