The coordinate plane is formed by a horizontal x-axis and a vertical y-axis crossing at the origin. Every point is located by an ordered pair, x first then y, and the two axes divide the plane into four quadrants.
Math Dictionary / Coordinate Plane
Coordinate Plane
The coordinate plane is a flat grid formed by a horizontal x-axis and vertical y-axis.
GeometryGrade 5Grade 6Grade 7Grade 8Algebra 1GEDSATACT
What it means
It lets you locate points using ordered pairs like (3, -2).
Also called: Cartesian plane, x-y plane
Examples
| (4, 2) means x = 4, y = 2 |
| The origin is (0, 0) |
| Quadrant II has negative x and positive y |
Common mistake
Always move left or right first for x, then up or down for y.
Try one
Question: What is the origin?
Show answer
The origin is (0, 0).