write an equation in the form y =mx+b for the line that passes through the point (-5,-1) and has a slope of -2

Question

tkhunny · Answer

Well, do it.  You have "y = mx + b" and you are give the slope.  Simply substitute that.

y = -2x + b

Now what?  That point was given for a reason.

anonymous · Answer

do i subtract -2 from -1

tkhunny · Answer

Why would you do that?  Use the given point.  (x,y) = (-5,-1)

anonymous · Answer

i dont understand

tkhunny · Answer

What does (-5,-1) mean when it indicates a point on a line?

pooja195 · Answer

Before any of the we need to do the point slope formula
$$\huge~y-y_1=m(x-x_1)$$
m=slope
(x1,y1)

anonymous · Answer

y--2=m(x-x1)

pooja195 · Answer

We also have the slope :)  m=-2 
try again

tkhunny · Answer

Yes, we can use the point-slope formula, but then you have to remember that.  I prefer simply thinking.  Please answer my question.

What does (-5,-1) mean when it indicates a point on a line?

anonymous · Answer

y--1=m(x-x1

pooja195 · Answer

Still wrong.  Let me help you out :) 
-5 = x1
-1 = y1
-2=m

pooja195 · Answer

Knowing that can you plug in the numbers?

pooja195 · Answer

Stuck?

tkhunny · Answer

|dw:1434125042262:dw|

"plug in numbers" doesn't mean anything.
The idea of "substitution" is universal and should be burned into your brain.