Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A linear graph is a graphical representation of data that shows a straight-line relationship between two variables. It indicates that as one variable increases, the other variable changes at a constant rate.
The slope of a linear graph represents the rate of change between the two variables. It indicates how much one variable changes for each unit change in the other variable.
Y-Intercept: The y-intercept is the point where the line intersects with the y-axis on a linear graph. It represents the value of the dependent variable when the independent variable is zero.
Line of Best Fit: The line of best fit is drawn through data points on a scatter plot to represent an approximate trend or relationship. In a linear graph, this line would be perfectly straight, fitting all data points as closely as possible.