How to Graph on a TI-83 Plus Calculator

IntroductionThe TI-83 Plus Calculator can be a user-friendly device, which is capable of performing a wide

array of mathematical computations. This instruction manual is intended to provide the steps necessary to graph functions.

Note: A function, in the mathematical sense, is a relationship where a certain input value will produce exactly one output. The input and output are often denoted with the variables x and y, respectively.

This guide will benefit users needing to solve one or more graphing equations, from assignments to real world applications.

What is covered Materials needed Basic layout of the calculator Specific buttons used in graphing Steps necessary to graph Troubleshooting

Materials Needed TI-83 Plus Graphing Calculator 4 AAA Batteries

WARNING: These instructions are intended for the TI-83 Plus graphing calculator. They may work on other graphing calculators, but problems may arise that aren't covered in this guide.

Equipment

Main Screen

2nd Key

On/Off Switch

Main Graphing Row

Various Function Keys

Number Pad

Main Screen - Enter in the functions/Visualize the graphs.

Main Graphing Row - Important buttons used to graph.

2nd Key - Used to access the backup buttons (shown in yellow).

Various Function Keys - Many different options are here.

(Only key graphing buttons will be touched on in this guide)

Number Pad - General number keys, along with general functions such as addition and subtraction.

On/Off Switch - Used to turn the calculator on and off.

DirectionsThis guide will use the function y=x^2+3x-4

1. Turn Calculator on.

2. On the Main Graphing Row click the Y= button.

3. Enter y=x^2+3x-4 into the Y1= section.

4. Then click the Graph on the Main Graphing Row. This will show you an image of your graphed function.

5. This will give you the graph of your function.

From here, there are many options to chose from to meet your situational needs. These are covered on the next page.

Situational OptionsFurther detail may be needed to achieve your intended answer, these options on the TI-83 Plus are offered for such occasions.

The Window button on the Main Graphing Row allows you to adjust the x range, the y range and at what scale the graph shows.

The Zoom button allows you to adjust what section of the graph you see. The section is automatically centered on the (0,0) component of the graph.

Note: Important information on a graph may reside outside the normal viewing window.

The Trace key along with the direction pad is used to find out the different values along your function curve.

The 2nd Key + Trace is the last graphing option on the Main Graphing Row. This allows you to view the Calc menu. This important feature allows you to calculate zero, maximum, minimum, integration values along with a few other values.

TroubleshootingIf you experience a problem with graphing there are a few errors that can occur.

Make sure the function is entered correctly, many problems can occur by not grouping important variables together.

If you are graphing Trigonometric functions make sure you are in radian mode, and not degree mode.(This can be done by pressing the mode key located near the 2nd Key.)

As noted early, make sure your window is showing all of the important information by zooming in or out.

The graphing calculator cannot graph points at which the function does not exist. This must be done manually.