What is a linear equation in simple terms?

A linear equation is a type of equation that makes a straight line when you graph it. It usually includes a variable with no exponent higher than one. For example, if you are buying something at a constant price, the total cost is a linear equation. Linear equations show a direct relationship between two things: when one increases or decreases, the other changes at a consistent rate. These equations are simple but very useful because they help us model many real-world situations like distance, cost, and time.