StarDestroyer.Net BBS

I know everyone ends up with y = mx + b, but which do you normally start with?

I use y=mx+b because it's just.. easier, I guess. Unless you dont know the y-intercept, in which case you have to go with the 2nd one... I think.

*did this last year and has already forgotten*

I am an old fan of y = mx +b.

But for some higher level statistics and regressions I generally turn and use the alternative. You just need 2 point to determine the slope, then take that and one point to generate the y-value.

How about Ax + By = C?

or maybe

R=(x,y,z) + n(x',y',z')?

I've always quite liked the latter, even though the former was more use, the second one did me well in the Pure Maths exams at AS level.

The second is useful for interpolation on steam tables.

y = F + vx

F = Fixed Costs
vx = Variable costs.

This is the equation used in cost accounting to describe cost behavior, and the one I most often use.

I use y = mx + c

Me too.

y = mx + b was the first I learned. Then progressed to ax + cy = b after that. -shrugs-

y = ax + b is more convenient, but I more often have to start with y - y1 = m(x - x1)

Bah, always use parametric symmetry.
(x-a)/A=(y-b)/B=(z-c)/C=...
Works in any euclidean geometry.
R(3) through infinity.

I got taught y = mx + c (or in this case y = mx + b)