GraphsDeep Dive
Drawing a Reciprocal Graph from a Table of Values
Part of Reciprocal Graphs — GCSE Mathematics
This deep dive covers Drawing a Reciprocal Graph from a Table of Values within Reciprocal Graphs for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Reciprocal Graphs in Graphs for GCSE Mathematics with 11 exam-style questions and 10 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 6 of 11 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 6 of 11
Practice
11 questions
Recall
10 flashcards
Drawing a Reciprocal Graph from a Table of Values
- Choose x-values on BOTH sides of zero (e.g. −4, −2, −1, 1, 2, 4)
- NEVER include x = 0 — it is undefined
- Calculate y = k/x for each x-value
- Plot points in both the positive and negative regions
- Draw TWO separate smooth curves, each approaching but never touching the axes
Example table for y = 6/x:
| x | −6 | −3 | −2 | −1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| y | −1 | −2 | −3 | −6 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Note how the branches are symmetric — the curve in Q1 mirrors the curve in Q3.