Enter the function into your graphing display calculator (GDC), select an appropriate viewing window, and graph it. Then use the GDC’s tools to identify relevant features and reproduce a labelled sketch if the examination question requires one.
This is IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL, sub-topic SL 2.3: Graphing, and is primarily assessed on Paper 2, where technology is required.
Method
Suppose you need to graph .
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Enter the function | Enter in the graphing or function menu. Check brackets, powers, and negative signs carefully. |
| 2. Set the window | Choose suitable minimum and maximum values for both axes. Start with a standard window, then adjust it until the important behaviour is visible. |
| 3. Graph the function | Display the graph and check that its shape is plausible from the equation. |
| 4. Identify features | Use trace, zero, minimum, maximum, or intersection tools when the question requires these values. |
| 5. Record the result | Give numerical answers to three significant figures unless otherwise instructed. For a sketch, label the axes and all relevant features. |
The viewing window is crucial. A poor window may hide roots, turning points, or asymptotic behaviour, so zooming out is not always enough; adjust each axis deliberately.
A common misconception is that copying the calculator screen automatically produces an acceptable sketch. It does not. Under the IB command term sketch, your graph must show the general shape and relevant features, such as intercepts, turning points, endpoints, or asymptotes. Under draw, greater accuracy and scale are expected.
Exam Technique
On Paper 2, show enough evidence of your method: write the function or equation entered before reporting GDC results. On Paper 1, calculators are not permitted, so you must graph analytically using known features and transformations.