Continuing Linear Sequences

Topic summary

In a linear sequence, the numbers change by the same amount each time. To find the next terms, look at how much the sequence goes up or down from one number to the next, then add or subtract that amount to continue the sequence.

Use the Common Difference to Find the Term-to-Term Rule of Linear Sequences

The common difference is the amount the sequence changes each time. Once you know this number, it becomes the term-to-term rule. For example, if the common difference is 3, the rule is “add 3 each time.” This rule helps you find any term in the sequence.