Foundations

Using a Calculator

You will be graphing polynomials on a calculator until you learn more about the characteristics of polynomial graphs. In order to graph the polynomial f(x) = 3x3 - 4x2 + 2x + 1 on a TI83/84 calculator, use the following instructions:

Access the graph menu by pressing Calc_1 and then enter the function. To type the variable, use the variable key Calc_2 .

Calc_3

When the polynomial has radical coefficients, the parentheses must be closed before the variable is entered. Failure to do so will result in an incorrect graph. For example, y = Calc_4 x2 - x must be entered as

Calc_5