Algebra
Finding the intercept
Rearranged from y = mx + b using either known point. This completes the line equation.
The Formula
b = y1 - m x x1
Rearranged from y = mx + b using either known point. This completes the line equation.
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| b | Y-intercept | same as y | The value of y when x is zero, which may or may not be meaningful in context. |
What Each Symbol Means
bsame as y
Y-intercept
The value of y when x is zero, which may or may not be meaningful in context.
See It Worked With Real Numbers
A formula on its own does not tell you which number goes where. The how to calculate slope page applies this equation to a concrete case, shows every intermediate step, and names the mistakes that produce a wrong answer even when the algebra is right.
Where This Formula Appears
This equation is the working core of How To Calculate Slope, filed under Math. Every number the guide produces comes from substituting into this one line.