Plot Points in Three Dimensions
Plotting points in three dimensions is very similar to plotting in two, with just one difference; instead of having two axes, you have three!
Steps
- Know the axes. The axes in three dimensions are x, y, and z. The coordinate system looks like this with the x-axis pointing toward you.
- Know how to read the ordered triples. The form for ordered triples is (x,y,z) so the point (3,2,4) would mean 3 units along the x-axis, 2 along the y-axis, and 4 along the z axis.
- Find the x distance.
- Find the y distance.
- Draw dotted lines parallel to the x and y axes to connect the two points drawn.
- Find the z distance.
- Draw dotted lines parallel to the axes to connect the points drawn so there is a projected point of the desired point on the yz and xz planes.
- Project dotted lines to the point.
Tips
- Make your axes big so that you can easily locate the point.
- Use a sharp pencil.
