Point-Slope Form Calculator

Write a line equation from a point and slope.

This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional financial, medical, legal, or engineering advice. See Terms of Service.

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How to Use the Point-Slope Form Calculator

This tool writes the equation of a line in point-slope form given a slope and a point on the line.

  1. Enter the slope. Provide the slope m of the line.
  2. Enter a point. Provide the x1 and y1 coordinates of a point on the line.
  3. View the equation. Both point-slope and slope-intercept forms are displayed.

About Point-Slope Form

Point-slope form is y - y1 = m(x - x1), where m is the slope and (x1, y1) is a known point on the line. It can be rearranged to slope-intercept form y = mx + b by distributing and solving for y. The y-intercept is b = y1 - m * x1. Point-slope form is often the fastest way to write a line equation when you know a point and the slope, making it a staple of algebra and analytic geometry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is point-slope form?

Point-slope form is y - y1 = m(x - x1), where m is the slope and (x1, y1) is a point on the line.

How do I convert point-slope to slope-intercept form?

Distribute the slope: y - y1 = mx - mx1. Then add y1 to both sides: y = mx + (y1 - mx1). The y-intercept is b = y1 - mx1.

When should I use point-slope form vs. slope-intercept form?

Use point-slope when you know a point and the slope. Use slope-intercept when you know the slope and y-intercept directly.