Abstract: An x-y plotter having a table on which a recording medium is to be carried, a linearly movable carriage which supports a writing tool so as to move up and down, a unit for linearly moving the recording medium along the plane of the medium in directions perpendicular to the directions of the movement of the carriage, and a first member for bringing only the portion of the recording medium located in the vicinity of a travel line along which the writing tool moves into close contact with the table and for lifting at least the portions of the recording medium located on opposite sides of the travel line, as viewed in the direction of the movement of the recording medium.