# Reflection

Flipping a shape over a mirror line so each point lands the same distance on the other side.

Maths (school) · Part 07: Shape and space · Card 1 of 9 · Last updated 2026-10-19

## Analogy

Like your reflection in a mirror, flipped but the same size.

## Example

**Point (3, 2)**

In the y-axis: (-3, 2)
In the x-axis: (3, -2)
In the line y = x: (2, 3)

## In practice

Logos and butterflies show reflection symmetry.

## Practice

### Flashcards

- **Reflect (3, 2) in the y-axis.** (-3, 2).

## Questions people ask

### What stays the same in a reflection?

The shape keeps its size and angles. Only its position and direction change. A point on the mirror line stays where it is. The reflected shape is a mirror image, so it is flipped but not stretched or shrunk. So a reflected shape is always congruent to the original, even though it faces the other way.

### How do you describe a reflection fully?

Say it is a reflection and give the equation of the mirror line, such as 'reflection in the y-axis' or 'reflection in the line x = 2'. Without the line, the description is incomplete and loses marks. Mirror lines can be vertical, horizontal or diagonal, such as y = x, so write the equation exactly.

## Related concepts

- [Rotation](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/maths-school/maths-school-part-7/maths-school-part-7-concept-2)
- [Translation](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/maths-school/maths-school-part-7/maths-school-part-7-concept-3)
- [Enlargement](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/maths-school/maths-school-part-7/maths-school-part-7-concept-4)

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