Plotting Graphs from T-Tables

The above diagram contains a values table of (x,y) coordinates that is arranged vertically down the page.

This is called a “T-Table” because its shape with the x and y headings at the top resembles the letter “T”.

We can also represent the same values in a horizontal table like this:

When we compare the two table layouts, we believe that the T-Table is far superior.

The T-Table is better because it makes it easier to write out the set of (x,y) coordinates.

From these (x,y) coordinates we are going to make our graph.

If you are not familiar with plotting (x,y) points onto an X-Y Grid, then click the link below to learn about this before continuing any further.

Cartesian Plane Lesson

Graphing From a T-Table

To plot a graph using values from a T-Table we follow these steps:

Step 1) Write the table out as a set of (x,y) coordinates.

Step 2) Rule up an X-Y grid on graph paper.

Step 3) Plot the points onto the grid.

Step 4) If the points form a pattern, then use a ruler to join the points together.

Step 5) Extend the line to fill the grid, and then add arrows to both ends.

Example Plotted Graph from T-Table

Here are Steps 1 and 2 completed.

Notice how easy it is to write out the (x,y) values. This is because they are already set out in order within the T-Table.

Completing Steps 3 to 5 produces the following graph.

Cartesian Plane Practice Grid

Here is a blank Cartesian Plane you can print out or Project onto a Whiteboard to practice plotting graphs.

Clicking the Image should take you to an 800×494 pixels grid that can be projected or printed.

That’s it for plotting points from X-Y values that are in “T-Tables”.

In the next lesson we will look at plotting points to make a line starting with an Algebra Equation “rule” like y = 2x + 1 .

Related Items

The Cartesian Plane
Plotting Graphs from Horizontal Values Tables
Plotting a Linear Graph using a Rule Equation
Real World Straight Line Graphs I
Real World Straight Line Graphs II

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