what is the equation for (0,1) (3,-8)

Question

need to find the equation

Answer 1

First we want to find the slope.

slope = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)

slope = (-8 - 1) / (3 - 0)

slope = (-9) / (3)

slope = -3

Now we want point-slope form:

y - y1 = m(x - x1)

y - 1 = -3(x - 0)

y - 1 = -3x

y = -3x + 1

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Note:  We don't have to put it in slope-intercept form (y = -3x + 1).  The equation y - 1 = -3(x - 0) is just as correct as y = -3x + 1.  But, since teachers like it and we're used to it, slope-intercept form is a good way to put the answer.