Type the inequality with < or > and Desmos shades the side that works. A dotted boundary means the line itself is not included. Graphing inequalities by hand is in graphing inequalities. The calculator is in Desmos on the ACT.
Read the shading, not just the line
y > 2x + 1 shades above the line and leaves the line dashed, because points on the line are not solutions. y ≥ 2x + 1 uses a solid line. For a system, graph both inequalities. The answer is the overlap, not either shade alone.
A strict inequality and a non-strict one are different choices. Match the symbol before you pick a graph that “looks close.”
Nearby graphs
A circle is a curve, not a shaded half-plane. That entry is in graphing a circle in Desmos. If the shaded region is off the window, zoom. That is in zooming off-screen graphs.
The bottom line
Type the inequality sign you were given. Solid or dashed, and which side is shaded, are the answer.
Start practicing
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This article offers general ACT prep guidance. The ACT can change from year to year, including its format, scoring, policies, test dates, and fees, so always confirm the latest details on the official ACT website at act.org before you make decisions. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. thirty-six is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ACT.