Physics·Scientific processes · NSSCO 1.2.3
Drawing graphs & tables the right way
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Physics loves graphs, because a good graph shows a pattern at a glance. Here we learn to do it the marking-scheme way — keeping table entries consistent, choosing sensible scales, putting the independent variable on the x-axis and the dependent on the y-axis, labelling axes with the quantity and unit, plotting neat points, drawing the best-fit line, and calculating the gradient m = Δy/Δx.
What you'll learn in this lesson
By the end you should be able to (NSSCO Physics 1.2.3):
- Record table entries consistently — same decimal places for readings, correct significant figures for calculations
- Select suitable scales and axes for a graph
- Plot the independent variable on the x-axis and the dependent variable on the y-axis
- Give the graph a heading and label each axis with the physical quantity and its unit (e.g. time/s)
- Draw a single clear best-fit line — a straight line or a smooth curve — and label multiple curves
- Plot points neatly as crosses (×) or encircled dots
- Calculate the gradient (slope) of a straight-line graph as m = Δy/Δx
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