07/03/2026
Exam top tip of the day. Graphs continued. How do I can self- assess whether I've drawn a good graph (and therefore max marks)? Remember SPLAT.
S- Scale. When working your scale out, your graph must cover more than two thirds of the total graph area (no tiny graph in one corner, that is an instant 0 marks). Your scale must be evenly spaced and go up in regular intervals (2s,5s, whatever is reasonable). What ever scale you do decide on, you must be able to work out the value of one square, so make the maths easy for you. Work out your scale first, and then draw the axes lines. Do not draw the axes line first and then try and make the scale fit. Use a sharp pencil and rule for all of this.
P- Plot. Either make a nice neat, small dot or cross. Check it. if it's wrong, rub it out and redo it.
L- Line of best fit (if appropriate) This will either be a straight line, or a curve. How do I know which one to use? If if plots look like they form a nice curve, then it will be a curve. As neatly as you can, and free-hand, join the points together. You may need the rotate the exam paper to make it easier for you. If it doesn't look like a curve, draw a straight line, with a ruler. You can draw through some points but must try and ensure there id equal number of points either side of where you draw the line.
A- Axis- covered above, but remember to use as much of the graph are as you can. Both axes MUST be correctly labelled (WITH UNITS) with the variable given in the question. If time is a var. this ALWAYS goes on the x- axis.
T- Title. All good graphs have a title. For example 'Graph to show time vs speed'.
The most unlikely type of graph you'll be expected to draw (generally) is a bar chart.
There's a lot there, but you can read this as many times as you like. More exam top tips to follow!
