The graphical concept of x intercept and y intercepts is Very simple. The x intercepts are the points where the graph crosses the x-axis, and the y-intercepts are the points where the graph crosses the y-axis. The problems start when we deal with intercepts algebraically.

The X and Y intercept are drawn in the graph to find the slope of the graph from the given equation.

Then, algebraically,

an x intercept is a point on the graph where the point y =  zero, and
A y intercept is a point on the graph where the point x = zero.

Procedure for finding X and Y intercept

x Intercept

Step1: For finding the X intercept we need to arrange the given equation in the slope intercept form.

Step2: The slope intercept form is    y = mx + c

Step3: After this we substitute y=0.

Step4: The equation becomes mx + c = 0, now we need to add/subtract constant C on both sides.

Step5:  Then divide the constant by the slope.  x = c/m.

y Intercept

Step1: For finding the y intercept we need to arrange the equation in slope intercept form.

Step2: After this, substitute x = 0

The equation becomes y= c, this is the Y intercept.


y and x intercept for 2x+y=8.


2x+y=8

The given equation is in the form of slope intercept form i.e. Y = mX + C

To find X Intercept, put y = 0

0 = -2x + 8

Subtract 8 on both sides,

0 – 8 = -2x + 8 – 8

-2x = -8

Divided 2 on both sides

-2x/2 = `-8/2`

-x = -4

Here the x intercept is 4.

To find the Y Intercept, put x = 0

y = 0 + 8

y = 8

Here the y Intercept is 8.

Using this we can plot the graph.