The first step of writing an equation when given two points is the same for both strategies, slope-intercept or point-slope forms. What would be the first step in finding the equation of the line that passes through (5, 1) and (3, 5)?

First, find the slope using the two points: (5 − 1) ÷ (3 − 5) = 4 ÷ (−2) = −2. The slope is needed whether you use slope-intercept form or point-slope form, so the correct choice is “find the slope.”

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