Foundations - Graphing Calculator

The graphing calculator becomes a very powerful tool in calculus. It is crucial to know how to use a graphing calculator as some problems on an exam require you to be able to use it in order to solve the problem correctly.

Graphing a Function

You should be able to graph functions on your calculator. Our resources are currently written for TI-83 or TI-84 series calculators.

maximums and minimums

You will discover that finding minimum and maximum points are critical in Calculus. You MUST know how to find them with and without the aid of a calculator on an exam.

x-intercepts

Knowing how to find x-intercepts and knowing how to interpret their meaning are both very important skills in Calculus. It is also very important to know the similarities between the following words in mathematics: roots, zeros, x-intercepts, and solutions.

Where 2 graphs intersect

Solutions to many problems can be found by locating intersection points on a graph. The calculator can help you do this, especially if you are setting two expressions equal in a problem and are having a hard time solving the equation.

Foundational Concepts

The following concepts are crucial in calculus, be sure you have a solid understanding of this material!

The 5 Step Plan