This exam tips covers Exam Tips for y = mx + c within y = mx + c for GCSE Mathematics. Revise y = mx + c in Graphs for GCSE Mathematics with 10 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 8 of 10 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
💡 Exam Tips for y = mx + c
- Check signs carefully: Is it +c or -c? Is m positive or negative?
- Read intercepts accurately: Use the grid lines to find exact values
- Show gradient calculations: Always write out the rise/run fraction
- Verify your answer: Substitute a point from the line into your equation
- Label your answer clearly: Write "The equation is y = ..."
- Use fractions when necessary: Don't always convert to decimals
Practice questions for y = mx + c
For the line y = 3x – 2, what is the gradient?
Two students write down equations for parallel lines: Student A writes: y = 2x + 1 Student B writes: y = 2x + 1 Explain why these two lines are NOT parallel to each other.
Quick recall flashcards
What gradient gives a 45° line?
m = 1 (rises 1 unit for every 1 unit across)
What is special about y = mx?
It passes through the origin (0, 0) because c = 0.