The 'x' and 'y' intercepts can be solved for by setting one or the other equal to zero.  For example, take a linear equation "y=2x+3", set 'x' equal to zero and y=2(0)+3=3, therefore the x-intercept is y=3... conversely, set 'y' equal to zero and 0=2x+3 which solves for x=-(3/2), so the y-intercept is x=-(3/2).