Question 79923
y = x^2 - 5x + 3

This is a quadratic equation. I will list my assistance in steps.

1. Find the axis of symmetry. 

The axis of symmetry is the same as the x coordinate of the vertex, or else known as h. This is because a parabola expands symmetrically on both sides, so if we draw the vertical line on x, it will always be in the middle of the parabola. (You'll get to see this when you sketch your parabola.)

So, find the vertex. You can either complete the square on x^2 - 5x or use the vertex formula, h = -b/2a and then substitute h into the whole equation to find k.

2. Suitable table of values:

This is easy. Just take x values, and find y. For example, when I have my vertex, I need to find where the parabola's next step is. Take x = 1, and sub it into the equation: (-1)^2 - 5(-1) + 3 and you get -1.0. Now plot a point at (1, -1) and on (3, -1); remember, parabolas expand symmetrically. 

Continue to do this for two more x co-ordinates and then connect the dots AS A CURVE. 

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Hello there,

I recommend reading this website: http://www.purplemath.com/modules/grphquad.htm

There are a couple of pages. If you still don't understand how to graph a quadratic function, please write back.