The graph of an inequality is an interval on a number line.
It is represented with an arrow and either an open circle or closed circle.
Closed Circle
When an inequality is either £ or ³, the number itself is a possible solution. To show that the number is included, the circle on that number should be closed (filled in). See the examples below.
x £ 3
Notice how the circle is closed on 3 (because x could be 3) and that the arrow points to the left because x is less than or equal to 3.
x ³ –5
Notice how the circle is closed on –5 (because x could be –5) and that the arrow points to the right because x is greater than or equal to 3.
Open Circle
When an inequality is either < or >, the number itself is NOT a possible solution. To show that the number is NOT included, the circle on that number should be open (blank inside). See the examples below.
x < 3
Notice how the circle is open on 3 (because x cannot be 3) and that the arrow points to the left because x is less than 3.
x > –5
Notice how the circle is open on –5 (because x cannot be –5) and that the arrow points to the right because x is greater than 3.