Plot freehand graphs in economics

Updated 28 Aug 2023

You can use the Freehand Graph tool to create conceptual graphs for economics questions. You can plot graphs with x- and y-axes and use a tool palette to draw objects on your graphs.

To plot graphs that incorporate numerical values and equations, you can click Graph in the left menu to use the math graphing tool.

You can create graph questions from scratch, or you can create them by copying and editing test bank questions in your course.

Students cannot interact with graphs that you create in the Custom Question Builder.

To create a graph using the Freehand Graph tool

  1. In the question-and-answer area, position the cursor where you want to add a graph.
  2. Click Freehand Graph in the left menu.
  3. Click Graph Settings at the bottom of the window to define properties for your graph, such as its title, size, axis labels, and so on. See Set graph properties for details.
  4. Use the tool palette on the right of the Freehand Graph window to draw different types of lines and shapes, enter text, and choose the color for an object.

    When you move your mouse pointer over a toolbar object, a short description displays. If you select a toolbar object, brief instructions on using the object show at the top of the window. See Use the graph tool palette for details on the options.

  5. Click OK to insert your graph into your question.

See Graph an econ question for an example of how to create a graph using the Freehand Graph tool.