A linear graph is a unique graph to be used in statistics. It is constructed by locating the points joined by the line segment representing the change in one variable with respect to another one. Here in this article, we are going to discuss the basic concepts of a linear graph.

What do you mean by a linear graph?

A linear graph called by many names such as line plot or line chart in statistics is a type of graph that uses points and lines to represent the set of data changing over time. In a line graph, the data is usually plotted against the time, and a line joining several points or a line showing the relation between several points are drawn. The graph represents the curve that joins a series of successive points of data. Through a line graph, an individual can easily observe the trend of the movement of the data. A linear graph, by using a vertical axis and a horizontal axis compares two variables. 

Mentioning different types of linear graphs:

1. Simple linear Graph: It is the type of linear graph in which only one line is plotted to show the relationship between any two variables of a data set.
2. Multilinear graph: It is the type of linear graph in which more than one line is plotted on the same x-axis and y-axis. The multi-linear graph allows individuals to effectively compare items of similar nature over the same time period. 
3. Compound linear graph: In case the information given in the data set can be subdivided into two or more than two types of data then this particular type of graph can be referred to as a compound linear graph. The part of the total can be represented with the help of lines. The top line on the graph represents the total and the lines plotted below the top one represent a part of the total. The size of each part is represented by the distance between every two lines. 

Vertical linear graph

Also referred to as a column graph, it is the type of linear graph in which the vertical line segment extends to the horizontal axis by joining each point located on the graph.

Horizontal linear graph

Also referred to as a row graph, it is the type of linear graph in which the horizontal line segment extends to the vertical axis by joining each point located on the graph.

How to construct the linear graph?

To construct a linear graph, it is important to have data tables. A series of points as per the given data table is located on the graph which later is joined with the help of straight lines, thus, forming the linear graph. 

To make a linear or line graph, follow the below-mentioned steps:

1. The first step is to determine the appropriate scale by using the data given in the data table. 
2. Now draw both horizontal (x-axis) and vertical axis (y-axis). Provide an appropriate title to both axes.
3. Mark the scale and list the given variables on the vertical axis (y-axis) and horizontal axis (x-axis). 
4. Place the points on the graph paper using the data given in the data table. 
5. In the last step join the located points with the help of a line segment. 

Bottom Line

The above-mentioned article will help you to clearly understand the basics of a linear graph. In case you want to learn about other statistical graphs such as scatter plot, then it is best to register in the online maths program provided by Cuemath. By attending the live lectures of this particular platform you can easily understand different mathematics concepts and thus, can quickly solve complicated mathematical problems.