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How to Solve Linear Systems With a Fractions Calculator

Linear equations are simple equations that contain only variables and numbers. Linear equations graph as a straight line based on slope intercept form, y = mx + b where "m" is the slope of the line and "b" is the y-intercept, or point where the line crosses the y-axis. A system of linear equations is two or more linear equations that can be solved at the same time because of a correlation between the answers.

Things You'll Need

Scientific calculator

Instructions

- 1
  Convert both equations in a system of linear equations to slope intercept form before working with the calculator. Use the system containing y - (2/3)x = 8 and 2y = 4x + (1/4) as an example. Convert the first equation by adding (2/3)x to both sides: y = (2/3)x + 8. Divide both sides by 2 to convert the second equation: y = 2x + (1/8).
- 2
  Turn on the calculator. Press the "Graph" button and wait for a screen to appear that shows a series of y-values (Y1, Y2, etc.) in a column on the left side. Input the first equation, (2/3)x + 8, into the Y1 row and hit "Enter." Enter the second equation, 2x + (1/8), into the second row. Press the "Graph" button to watch the graph appear.
- 3
  Press "2nd," "Trace," "Calc" and the No. 5 to put the cursor on the graphed lines. Press the arrow keys to move the cursor onto the point where the lines intersect (or as close as possible). Press "Enter" three times and the point of intersection, which is the answer, will appear on the screen.

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