To graph a line, the equation of the line can be used to find points that form the line. The equation for a parabola may be used in a similar manner to sketch its graph. Using the equation of a parabola, it is possible to find the axis of symmetry, the vertex, and the points of symmetry. Once each of these is found, the points may be graphed and connected to produce a sketch of the curve.

To use this interactive application, enter the numerical coefficients for each term of the equation into the appropriate box. In some cases, you may need to rewrite or simplify an equation before you can enter the required information into the boxes.

Try working through each problem with pencil and paper first to find the axis of symmetry, vertex, and points of symmetry. Then sketch the curve on graph paper. Use the interactive application to check your work.

If you encounter a subtraction sign in an equation, you will need to rewrite the equation using negative signs before entering the equation into the boxes because the addition symbol cannot be modified in the interactive application. For example, to input the equation
y = x² - 3x - 4, you must enter the equation as y = 1 x² + - 3 x - 4.

To use the application, click on the "play" button and enter your data. You may have to hit the "enter" key after entering new values in order to refresh the application.