The standard form of a linear equation looks like this:

$$Ax + By = C$$

Here’s what the letters mean:

• $A$, $B$, and $C$ are whole numbers (integers).
• $A$ has to be zero or more ($A \geq 0$).
• Both $A$ and $B$ can’t be zero at the same time.

Key Features:

• Each part of this equation shows a straight-line relationship.
• When you draw it on a graph, it creates a straight line.
• You can change it to slope-intercept form: $y = -\frac{A}{B}x + \frac{C}{B}$, which is often easier to work with.

How to Use It:

1. Find the values of $A$, $B$, and $C$ in your equation.
2. Change it to slope-intercept form if you want it to be simpler for graphing.
3. Use this equation to solve systems of equations or tackle real-life problems, like figuring out growth rates or economics.