To write an equation in the form \( y = mx + b \), you can follow these three steps:
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A: Compare the change in y with the change in x - Determine the slope (m) by calculating how much y changes for a given change in x. This is known as finding the rate of change or slope.
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C: Find the starting value - Identify the value of y when x is 0. This value is represented by b in the equation \( y = mx + b \).
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B: Find the equation for the line - Using the slope (m) and the y-intercept (b), write the equation in the form \( y = mx + b \).
By following these steps, you'll be able to construct the linear equation effectively.