Write an Inequality From a Number Line

1. Read the endpoint symbol

A number line shows a boundary value and which side of the line is included. First identify the point where the shading begins or ends.

• Closed dot means the endpoint is included: use ≤ or ≥.
• Open dot means the endpoint is not included: use < or >.

2. Decide the direction

Look at the shaded part of the number line.

• Shading to the right means values greater than the endpoint.
• Shading to the left means values less than the endpoint.

3. Write the inequality

Combine the endpoint, the correct inequality sign, and the variable.

Examples of structure:

• shaded right, closed dot at 4 → x ≥ 4
• shaded left, open dot at 7 → x < 7

4. Check your answer

Make sure the inequality matches both features:

1. the dot type tells whether the endpoint is included;
2. the shading direction tells whether the solution is greater or less.

If the answer is simplified, keep it in standard inequality form with the variable on one side and the number on the other.