A two dimensional Cartesian graph shows how two quantities, called variables, relate to one another. It is formed by a horizontal axis (typically called the x-axis) and a vertical axis (the y-axis) that intersect with one another at right angles at a point of origin. Points on the graph will all be values of x and y (ordered pairs) that make the equation you are graphing true.
Instructions
Plot Points on Your Graph
1. Determine how many quadrants you will be using and center your graph on the paper accordingly. There are four quadrants: I (where x and y are both positive), II (where x is negative and y is positive), III (where x and y are both negative), and IV (where x is positive and y is negative). Many graphs only require the use of the first quadrant.
2. Create a table to the side with two columns for x and y.
3. Include 0, 1, -1 and any multiples of pi that are appropriate x values to your equation.
4. Choose a few more x values at random, covering a broad range of your x-axis.
5. Use your calculator to solve the equation for y with all of these values of x.
6. Construct the graph on your graph paper. Use your ruler to keep the lines straight.
7. Label your x and y axes and place representative values at even intervals along them to indicate the scale of your graph.
8. Use the table you made in steps one to four to put points on the graph.
9. Connect the points with a straight line or curve to illustrate the continuous function.
10. Check your work by solving the equation for a new value of x. Your y value should match the point on the graph you have drawn.
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