Understanding Standard Form and Finding Intercepts: A Beginner’s Guide

Maybe when you have time check this out…

Too good. Too amazing. Too exciting. In fact, I can’t take how exciting it is.

Linear equations in standard form are one of the SAT’s favorite ways to present lines. Knowing how to find the x- and y-intercepts of these equations can make these questions a breeze. Even if test anxiety or SAT anxiety tries to convince you otherwise, the process is straightforward once you break it down step by step.

Let’s dive into the standard form of a linear equation, how to find the intercepts, and how these points help us graph lines.


What Is Standard Form?


Why Are Intercepts Important?


How to Find the Intercepts

1. Finding the x-Intercept:


2. Finding the y-Intercept:


Practice Problems

Let’s try a few examples to see this process in action.

Problem 1:


Problem 2:


Connecting It to the Graph


Test Anxiety Tip: Focus on the Steps

If SAT anxiety starts to creep in, stick to these steps:

Remember, intercept problems are just about substituting and solving—no fancy tricks needed!


Final Thoughts

Finding intercepts from the standard form of a linear equation is one of the most straightforward skills you can master for SAT math. With a little practice, you’ll be solving these questions with ease and confidence.

Keep checking back on this blog for more tips and tricks to make SAT math less stressful and way more fun. You’ve got this—go show those lines who’s boss!