SAT Desmos Window Settings: Find Hidden Intersections and Set Angle Units

Enter y = 0.5x + 120 and y = 2x − 30. Their intersection is (100,170), well beyond a small view around the origin. Set x from 0 to 120 and y from 0 to 200 in Graph Settings. Then inspect the intersection. Algebra checks it: 0.5x + 120 = 2x − 30 gives 150 = 1.5x, so x = 100 and y = 170.

• Use context limits for x: time cannot be negative in a model that defines time after an event.
• Estimate the expected y-scale from coefficients or a few values.
• For a table, use Zoom Fit to display its data, then expand the view for a requested prediction.
• Check beyond the visible window when another intersection is mathematically possible.

Changing the window changes what you see, not the equation or its solutions.

Open Graph Settings and choose the angle unit required by the problem. In degree mode, sin(30) = 0.5. In radian mode, sin(π/6) = 0.5. Both describe the same angle because 30° = π/6 radians. Typing 30 in radian mode asks for a different angle. A full turn is 360° or 2π radians.

Use Desmos testing calculators (opens in a new tab) and a Bluebook test preview. Their configuration can differ from the general public calculator. Desmos supports accessibility settings and audio trace; try the relevant options on the same device and assistive technology you intend to use. A PeakSAT illustration is a mathematical diagram, not a screenshot of the exam interface.

For y = x + 40 and y = 3x − 60, solving x + 40 = 3x − 60 gives x = 50 and y = 90. Choose bounds that include (50,90), inspect the point and substitute into both equations. This is a controlled way to practice adjusting the view.