Maths dictionary
What is slope in maths?
Slope, or gradient, measures how steep a line is: the change in y divided by the change in x.
Definition
Slope, or gradient, measures how steep a line is: the change in y divided by the change in x.
Example
A line through (0, 2) and (1, 5) has slope 3.
Tip
Positive slope goes up to the right; negative goes down.
Practise it
- Learn it visually: Slope and Straight Lines (interactive lesson)
- Play: Coordinate Battleships
- Worksheets: Slope between two points (Grade 8)
- Worksheets: Linear functions, finding y (Grade 8)
- Online maths practice
Quick check: try these
Work each one out on paper, then tap the question to see the answer.
Find the slope of the line through (1, −2) and (3, −7):
Answer: -5/2
Find the slope of the line through (0, 1) and (2, 3):
Answer: 1
Find the slope of the line through (5, 1) and (7, −3):
Answer: -2
Find the slope of the line through (4, −3) and (7, 2):
Answer: 5/3
Learn it in depth
Slope (gradient) is part of Coordinate Geometry for Class 9: notes, formulas, solved examples with every step, common mistakes and ten practice questions with answers. Want a teacher to go through it with you? See Class 9 maths tuition.
Related words
FAQ
Slope (gradient): questions
What is slope in maths?
Slope, or gradient, measures how steep a line is: the change in y divided by the change in x. A line through (0, 2) and (1, 5) has slope 3.
What is a common mistake with slope (gradient)?
Positive slope goes up to the right; negative goes down.
Where do students learn slope (gradient)?
Coordinate Geometry is usually taught in Class 9, and the ideas come back in later classes. Chapter names and order differ by board and textbook, so follow your own textbook. We have a full page with notes, solved examples and practice questions.
Play it, don't just read it
Try it now: Slope between two points
Eight quick questions with instant feedback. Your score is saved on this device and counts in the games and learning paths too.
Slope between two points (Grade 8): Finding the gradient of a line through two points. Open the practice page or print a worksheet.
Or play a game
- Coordinate BattleshipsFind hidden ships by naming points as (x, y). Positive grid or all four…Play
- Algebra 2: Functions & Linear ModelsFollow the full Chapter 2 path: functions, slope, line graphs, direct…Play
- Slope and Straight LinesChange m and b and watch the line y = mx + b move on a grid.Play