How to Find the Slope of the Line of Best Fit on Desmos?

To find the slope of the line of best fit on Desmos, use a regression equation in the form y = mx + b (or y = ax + b if you prefer 'a' for the slope). Desmos will calculate the slope (m or a) and y-intercept (b) values for you.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Enter your data: In Desmos, create a table. Enter your x-values in the x1 column and your corresponding y-values in the y1 column.

2. Enter the Regression Equation: In a new line, type the regression equation: y1 ~ mx1 + b (or y1 ~ ax1 + b). The ~ symbol (tilde) tells Desmos to perform a regression.

3. Find the Slope: Desmos will display the parameters of the best-fit line, including the slope (m or a) and the y-intercept (b). Look for the values of m or a in the results provided by Desmos; this is the slope of your line of best fit.

Example:

Let's say you have the following data points: (1, 2), (2, 4), (3, 5), (4, 7), (5, 9).

1. Enter the x and y values into a table in Desmos.

2. Type y1 ~ mx1 + b into a new line.

3. Desmos will display the values of m and b. The value of m will represent the slope of the line of best fit for your data. For example, Desmos might show m = 1.7 and b = 0.5, indicating a slope of 1.7 and a y-intercept of 0.5.

By inputting your data and using the regression equation, Desmos provides the slope directly, making it a convenient tool for finding the line of best fit.