A LITTLE PRACTICE, EVERY DAY·GCSE MATHS
AQA·Edexcel·OCR|Foundation + Higher
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Command Words

Sketch vs Draw vs Plot

"Plot" needs accurate axes and exact points. "Draw" is accurate but freer. "Sketch" shows the shape and key features only.

Definition

These three are NOT synonyms. "Plot" demands graph paper and exact point-by-point work. "Draw" expects ruler accuracy. "Sketch" just needs a freehand curve with axes labelled and key features (intercepts, turning points, asymptotes) marked.

Common confusion

Treating a "sketch" like a "plot" wastes exam time. Treating a "plot" like a "sketch" loses all the marks.

Used in these topics

Quadratic graphs →Linear graphs and equation of a line →

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