How to answer it
- Name what x and y measure, with units.
- Read the slope as “y changes by this much per one x.”
- Read the intercept as the predicted y when x is 0, if that makes sense.
Worked example
An original question in the SAT format, already answered.
SAT MathWorked example
A scatterplot of hours studied (x) and quiz score (y) has the line of best fit y = 5x + 58.
Which choice best interprets the number 5 in this context?
- AEach additional hour of study is associated with about 5 more points.
- BA student who studies 0 hours scores about 5 points.
- CQuiz scores range from 5 to 58.
- DStudents study about 5 hours on average.
Answer: A. 5 is the slope: about 5 more points per extra hour. B describes the intercept, which here is 58.
The most common trap
Mixing up slope and intercept. The number multiplied by x is the rate.
Practice it
Hourly Prep’s daily sets mix two-variable data with the rest of SAT Math, and send more of it your way when it’s a weak spot. See how the SAT prep plan works, or browse the other SAT skill guides.