Curve Sketching

with a Casio
Graphics Calculator
The following worksheets have been
designed to use with the
Casio CFX-9850G PLUS Calculator
or similar Casio models.
Graph Sketching with a Graphics Calculator
Use a graphics calculator to answer all of this question and give all numerical
answers correct to 3 significant figures as appropriate.
1. a. Sketch the curve of
3 2
1
2 y x x
x
= + from
{ }
2 3 x x \ .
b. Solve the equation
3 2
1
2 0 x x
x
+ = for
{ }
2 3 x x \
c. Mark on your graph the coordinates of any maximum or minimum points.
d. Explain mathematically what is happen at 0 x =
e. Draw on your graph 4 y x = and determine the following:
i. whether 4 y x = is a tangent to the curve
3 2
1
2 y x x
x
= + , explaining
clearly each step you have made.
ii. the solutions the equation
3 2
1
2 4 0 x x x
x
+ = for
{ }
2 3 x x \ .
Solution
1. a. Set the calculator onto graph in the Main Menu as shown below.
Then enter the equation
3 2
1
2 y x x
x
= + .
Go to view window and set the following screen.
Press EXIT and then press F6 DRAW.
b. To solve the equation
3 2
1
2 0 x x
x
+ = we need to
find the ROOTS of the curve

3 2
1
2 y x x
x
= + . Press F5 G-SLV
and then press F1 ROOT which will give the first root.
1 x =
and right REPLAY button to obtain the second root.
1.84 x = to 3 S.F.
c. Press SHIFT and F5 G-SLV and then press F2 MAX.
Mark the point (-0.560, -2.58) on your graph.
Press SHIFT and F5 G-SLV and then press F3 MIN
Notice that the first time you get an erroneous answer due to the asymptote.
Press right REPLAY button. Mark the point (1.44, -0.467).
d. The line 0 x = is a vertical asymptote.
e.g.
3 2
0
1
lim 2
x
x x
x

+ =


and
3 2
0
1
lim 2
x
x x
x
+

+ =


.
e. Press EXIT and enter in the position Y2 4 y x = to draw the graph 4 y x =
on your graph see diagrams below.
i. Using the F2 ZOOM and then press F1 BOX
Move the cursor the following place as shown in the first diagram below
and press EXE and draw a BOX around where the curve
3 2
1
2 y x x
x
= +
meets the line 4 y x = , like the second diagram.
Press EXE and you can see that the line 4 y x = is a chord and not a
tangent.
ii. To solve
3 2
1
2 4 0 x x x
x
+ = we can use the
graph to find where
3 2
1
2 4 x x x
x
+ =
first reset the view window.
Press F5 G-SLV and press F5 ISCT the answers. Remember to press the
right REPLY button to get the next solution.
Gives the solution 1 x = .
Gives the solution 0.675 x = .
Gives a solution which is an erroneous answer,
due to the asymptote.
Gives the solution 0.461 x =
Points of Intersections, tangents and normals
Question
a. On the same axis draw graphs of ( ) 1
x
x e = + and ( ) g x x =
b. On the same axis draw a graph of
1
( ) x

.
c. Write down the coordinates of the points of intersection of ( ) y x = ,
1
( ) y x

=
and ( ) y g x = correct to 3 S.F.
d. Write down the equations that you have just solved by finding the points of
intersections and their solutions correct to 3 S.F.
e. Draw the tangent and normal to the curve
1
( ) y x

= at the point 2 x = and find

their equations in the form y mx c = + .
Solution
a. In the main menu enter graph and SHIFT + F3 to set the view window. Then
press EXIT and enter the two functions ( ) 1
x
x e = + and ( ) g x x = .
Press DRAW F6 to obtain the graphs.
b. To draw the inverse function
1
( ) y x

= , press SHIFT + F4 (SKETCH) followed

by INV - F4. As we have drawn two curves on the same axis we have to chose
which function to which we have to draw the inverse. We require the inverse to
( ) 1
x
x e = + so we press EXE and the orange curve gives us
1
( ) y x

= . Notice
that it a reflection of ( ) 1
x
x e = + in the line y x = .
c. In order to work with the point of intersection we will have to draw the curve of
1
( ) y x

= using GRAPH or SKETCH, which will require us to find the equation of

1
( ) x

.
Let 1
x
y e = + now make x the subject.
( )
1
1
ln 1
x
x
y e
e y
x y
= +
=
=
Now interchange the x and y and replace y with
1
( ) x

to obtain ( )
1
( ) ln 1 x x

= .
Go to GRAPH Menu and add in the new equation.
You should obtain the same graph as before except that
1
( ) x

will no longer be
orange. To find the points of intersection, press SHIFT + G-SOLV (F5) and ISCT
F5. The equation of ( ) 1
x
x e = + appears, press EXE and the equation of
( ) g x x = appears.
Press EXE again and the calculator will find point of
intersection of ( ) 1
x
x e = + and ( ) g x x = .
Write down ( ) 1.28, 1.28 .
To find the point of intersection of ( ) g x x = and ( )
1
( ) ln 1 x x

= , press SHIFT +
G-SOLV (F5) and ISCT F5. The equation of ( ) 1
x
x e = + appears, press the
down REPLAY button and the equation of ( ) g x x = appears, press EXE then
( )
1
( ) ln 1 x x

= appears. Notice the orange cursor appears at the end of each

graph that has been selected.
Press EXE again and the calculator will find the point
of intersection of ( ) g x x = and ( )
1
( ) ln 1 x x

= .
Write down ( ) 1.28, 1.28 Notice that the coordinates
are a reflection in the line y x = of the previous intersection.
d. In the first case we have solved the equation 1 1 0
x x
e x x e + + + = = which
has solution 1.28 x = to 3 S.F.
In the second case we have solved the equation ln( 1) 1
x
x x x e

= =
( ) or 1 0 ln 1 0
x
x e x x

= + = , which has solution 1.28 x = to 3 S.F.

e. Press SHIFT + SKETCH (F4) and then Tang F2. we then have to select the
correct graph to which we want to draw the tangent. By pressing the down
REPLAY button two times.
Until we obtain the following screen. Then move the cursor along with the right
replay button until 2 x = , then press EXE.
To obtain the normal at 2 x = , we press SHIFT + SKETCH (F4) again and then
press Norm F3 and repeat the whole process.
To find the equations the tangent and normal
Let ( )
1 1
( ) ln 1 '( ) '( ) 1
1 ( ) 1
2
2
x x x
x
= = = =

also [ ] ( ) ln ( 1 2 2) 0 = =
Therefore the gradient of the tangent to the curve ( ) ln 1 y x = at 2 x = is 1
t
m =
and the normal 1
n
m =
Equation of Tangent 1
t
m = at (2, 0) Equation of normal 1
n
m = at (2, 0)
( )
1 1 t
y y m x x = ( )
1 1 n
y y m x x =
0 2 y x = ( ) 0 2 y x =
2 y x = 2 y x = +
Graph Sketching Polynomials, a cubic.
Question
Consider the following graph of ( ) y x = .
a. If "( ) 6 2 x x = , find the x-coordinate of the point of inflection of ( ) y x = .
b. At (2, -14) there is a minimum point on ( ) y x = . Find a function for the
gradient.
c. The curve cuts the y-axis at 2 y = . Find the function ( ) y x = .
Give your answers to the following correct to 3 significant figures.
d. Find the y-coordinate of the point of inflection.
e. Find the coordinates of the maximum point.
f. Solve the equation ( ) 0 x = .
Solution
a. For a point of inflection
1
3
"( ) 0 6 2 0 x x x = = =
( ) y x =
(2, -14)
- 2
x
y
NOT TO
SCALE
b. ( )
2
'( ) 6 2 3 2 x x dx x x c = = +

.
There is a minimum point (stationary point) at (-2, 14) therefore'(2) 0 =
( ) ( )
2
3 2 0
12 4 0
2
8
2
8 0
c
c
c
c
+ =
+ =
+ =
=
2
'( ) 3 2 8 x x x =
c.
( )
2 3 2
( ) 3 2 8 8 x x x dx x x x k = = +

The cuts the y-axis at (0, -2) therefore (0) 2 =

( ) ( ) ( )
3 2
0 0 8 0 2
2
k
k
+ =
=
3 2
(x) = x 8 2 x x
d. First draw the curve with a graphics calculator. In the MAIN MENU go to
GRAPH and press EXE. Enter in the function
3 2
(x) = x 8 2 x x
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. Press SHIFT F5 G-Slv
followed by F6 again.
Then press F1 Y-CAL,
enter in
1
3
and press
EXE. Notice the cursor
moves to the point of
inflection. Write down the answer 4.74 y = .
If we were going to use an algebraic method then we would need to find
1

3



.
3 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 8
8 2
20
4 2
3 3 3 27 9 3 7 3 2

= = =




e. Press SHIFT F5 G-Slv
followed by F2 MAX,
which gives the maximum
point at (-1.33, 4.52).
Using an algebraic method we must put
'( ) 0 x = ( )( )
2
4
3 2 8 0 3 4 2 0 or 2
3
x x x x x x = + = = =
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have:
4 4
" 0
3 3
x

< =


is a maximum point and ( ) " 2 0 2 x > = is a minimum
point. Now finding the y-coordinate of the maximum point we have
3 2
4 4 4 4 14
8 2 4
3 3 3 3 27

= =


. a max point at
1 14
1 , 4
3 27

.
f. To solve the equation
3 2
( ) 0 8 2 0 x x x x = = , we need to find the roots
of the graph
3 2
8 2 y x x x = . Press SHIFT F5 G-Slv followed by F1 ROOT.
To get each successive root you have to press the right REPLAY button.
Write down 2.21, 0.261 or 3.47 x = . The equation can be solved by using
EQUA in the MAIN MENU followed by F2 Polynomial, F2 Degree 3.
Enter in the coefficients 1,
-1, -8, -2 and press F1
SOLV. Write down the
solutions again.
Now draw ( ), '( ) and "( ) y x y x y x = = = on the same screen and view window. To
change the colour highlight Y2, press F4 COLR and press F2 Orng and then highlight
Y3 and press F3 Grn.
Press EXIT F6 DRAW.
From these graphs it is
easy to see that '( ) y x =
is zero at the maximum and
minimum points of ( ) y x = .
At the maximum point
"( ) y x = is negative and at
the minimum point,
"( ) y x = is positive. Also
notice that the point of
inflection on ( ) y x =
occurs when "( ) y x = is zero.
Curve Sketching Polynomials
Sketch the curve
4 2
3 y x x =
First draw the curve
4 2
3 y x x = using the graphs calculator. First in the MAIN
MENU go to GRAPH and enter in the function
4 2
3 y x x = and press SHIFT F3 to
set the view window.
Return to previous menu by
pressing EXIT and then
press DRAW F6 to obtain
the graph. To find the roots
press SHIFT+F5 G-Solv and
then F1 ROOT . To obtain each successive root press the right REPLAY button each
time.
Write down (-1.73, 0), (0, 0) and (1.73, 0) correct to 3S.F. as appropriate.
To find the coordinates of the maximum and minimum point, press SHIFT+F5 G-
Solv. In the case of the minimum points remember to press the right REPLAY button,
to obtain the second minimum point.
The maximum point is (0, 0) and the minimum
points are (-1.22, -2.25) and (1.22, -2.25) correct to 3 S.F.
as appropriate.
Now analyse the curve
4 2
3 y x x =
x-axis ( 0 y = )
( ) ( )( )
4 2 2 2 2
3 0 3 0 3 3 0 x x x x x x x = = + =
0, 3 x = which gives
( )
3, 0 , (0, 0) and
( )
3, 0 .
y-axis ( 0 x = ) ( ) ( )
4 2
0 3 0 0 y = = which gives (0, 0).
x The most dominant term is
4
x
x y
x y
+ +
+
y undefined y is defined for all x \
max/min
2
2
3
4
'( ) 4
"( ) 1
) 3
2

6
(
6
x x x
x x
x
x
x

Now for stationary values

( )
3 2
3
'( ) 0 4 6 0 2 2 3 0 0 or
2
x x x x x x x
These could also be found using a graphics calculator by drawing the graph of
3
'( ) 4 6 y x x x using the same view window and press F4 COLR followed by
F2 Orng to change the colour to orange. Press EXIT followed by F6 DRAW to obtain
both the graphs of ( ) y x and '( ) y x . The roots of '( ) y x will give us the
stationary values (maximum and minimum points) ( ) y x . Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv
followed by F1 ROOT.
You have to select the curve you want to find the root, so press the down REPLAY
button until the equation for '( ) y x is displayed. Press the right REPLAY button to
obtain successive roots.
Again we obtain 1.22, 0 and 1.22 x x x correct to 3
S.F. as appropriate, for the stationary points.
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
2
3 3 3
" 12 6 0
2 2 2
x
j \ j \
>
, ( , (
, ( , (
( , ( ,
are minimum points.
( ) ( )
2
" 0 12 0 6 0 0 x < is a maximum point.
The test could also determined using a graphics calculator, by drawing the graph of
2
"( ) 12 6 y x x using a different view window and press F4 COLR followed by
F3 Grn to change the colour to Green. Press EXIT followed by F6 DRAW to obtain
the graphs of ( ) y x '( ) y x and "( ) y x .







Notice at both minimum points on ( ) y x = that "( ) y x = are positive the
condition for stationary points to be minimum. At the maximum point on
( ) y x = , "( ) y x = is negative which is the condition for a stationary point to be
a maximum.

To find the corresponding y-coordinates
4 2
3 3 3 9 3 9
3 3
2 2 2 4 2 4


= = =





, which
gives minimum points at
3 9
,
2 4





and
3 9
,
2 4

.
( ) ( ) ( )
4 2
0 0 3 0 0 = = , which gives a maximum point at
(0, 0).

pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x =

( )
2 2
1 2
12 6 0 6 2 1 0
2
2
x x x = = = = .
To find the corresponding y-coordinates
4 2
2 2 2 4 2 5
3 3
2 2 2 16 4 4


= = =






Which gives
2 5
,
2 4





and
2 5
,
2 4

as points of
inflection.

From the graph of "( ) y x = using a graphics calculator we can find the x-
coordinate of the point of inflection by find the roots. Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv
followed by F1 ROOT. Select "( ) y x = by using the down REPLAY button,
press EXE to find the roots. To find the second root press the right REPLAY
button.






Write down 0.707 x = and 0.707 x = correct to 3 S.F. as appropriate, for the
points of inflection.



Sketch
From the graph we can see that the domain is x \
and range is
9
4
y y




\ .
On the graphics calculator if we go to SHIFT + SET UP scroll down to Derivative and
press F1 on and then press EXIT. Then press F6 DRAW to obtain the graphs of
( ) y x '( ) y x and "( ) y x . Use the original view window. Press SHIFT F1
Trace select ( ) y x and scroll using the right REPLAY button. The calculator will
display the value of the first derivative '( ) x at tat point on the curve ( ) y x . This
can give you a feel on how the gradient on ( ) y x is changing as x increases.
Minimum at
3 9
,
2 4
j \

, (
, (
( ,
Maximum
at (0, 0)
"( ) 0 x >
3 3
Points of inflection
at
2 5
,
2 4
j \

, (
, (
( ,
4 2
3 y x x
-1.5
Minimum at
3 9
,
2 4
j \

, (
, (
( ,
x
y
Concave Concave Concave
upwards downwards upwards
"( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x <
NOT TO
SCALE
Curve Sketching Trigonometric Functions
Sketch the graph of cos
x
y e x

for
5
0
2
x x




\
First make sure that your calculator is set to radians by in the MAIN MENU going to
graph and then SHIFT SET UP and scroll down to check that the angle is in radians.
Press EXIT, and enter the function cos
x
y e x

and set the view menu as shown by

pressing SHIFT F3 V-Window. The 7.85398163 for Xmax can be entered by keying
in
5
2

and 1.57079632 for scale by keying in

2

. Press EXIT and then F6 DRAW to

obtain the graph. Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and F4 Y-ICPT to see the y-intercept is 1.
We can see that the graph is not too good as
5
2
x

and might be better to ZOOM
in on selected areas. Press SHIFT F2 Zoom. Press F1 BOX and a red cursor will
appear and move the cursor to the position in the third diagram below.
Press EXE, and move the cursor to the position in the first diagram below and press
EXE and the calculator will zoom in to the area that has been boxed, as in the
second diagram below. Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv.
Press F1 ROOT and the calculator will give the roots for the domain. Notice that we
cannot obtain the value for the third root at
5
2

Why?
450
D
Pressing SHIFT F5 again and selecting F2 MAX or F3 MIN will give the maximum
and minimum point of the curve, as shown below.
To see a better view of the maximum point we zoom in onto the right hand side of
the graph using SHIFT F2 Zoom and F1 BOX
Again we could find the maximum point by pressing SHIFT F5 G-Solv and then F2
MAX.
Now analyse the function ( ) cos
x
x e x for
5
0
2
x x




\
x-axis ( 0 y ) cos 0
x
e x

as 0 cos 0
x
e x

3 5
, ,
2 2 2
x


which gives
3 5
, 0 , , 0 , , 0
2 2 2
j \ j \ j \
, ( , ( , (
( , ( , ( ,
y-axis ( 0 x )
0 0
cos0 (1) 1 e e which again gives (0, 1).
x Not required as we have a restricted domain.
y undefined y is defined for all real x in the given domain.
max/min ( ) cos
x
x e x
'( ) ( sin ) cos
(sin cos )
x x
x
x e x e x
e x x

+
"( ) (cos sin ) (sin cos )
( cos sin sin cos )
2 sin
x x
x
x
x e x x x x e
e x x x x
e x

+ +
+ + +

Now for stationary values '( ) 0 x

(sin cos ) 0
x
e x x

+ but 0
x
e

sin cos 0
sin cos
tan 1
x x
x x
x
+

arctan1
4

C
S
4

A
T
3 7
or
4 4
x x


Using the 2
nd
derivative test "( ) 2 sin
x
x e x

we have
3
4
3 3 3
" 2 sin 0
4 4 4
e x

j \ j \
>
, ( , (
( , ( ,
is a minimum point
7
4
7 7 7
" 2 sin 0
4 4 4
e x

j \ j \
<
, ( , (
( , ( ,
is a maximum point.
and to find the corresponding y-coordinates
3 3
4 4
3 3 2
cos
4 4 2
e e



j \

, (
( ,
minimum point at
3
4
3 2
,
4 2
e

j \

, (
, (
( ,
7 7
4 4
7 7 2
cos
4 4 2
e e



j \

, (
( ,
maximum point at
7
4
7 2
,
4 2
e

j \
, (
, (
( ,
.
pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x
2 sin 0 but 0 sin 0 0, , 2
x x
e x e x x


which gives ( ) ( ) ( )
2
0, 1 , , , 2 , e e



.
Sketch
For the restricted domain
5
0
2
x x




\ the range is
3
4
2
1
2
y e y

\ .
( )
2
2 , e

Points of Inflection
1
3
4
3 2
Min ,
4 2
e

j \

, (
, (
( ,
"( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x < "( ) 0 x >
7
4
7 2
Max ,
4 2
e

j \
, (
, (
( ,
x
y

2

3
2

2
5
2

cos
x
y e x

Concave Concave Concave

upwards downwards upwards
( )
, e

Curve Sketching Trigonometric Functions 2

Sketch the graph of
sin x
y e = for
{ }
0 4 x x \
First make sure that your calculator is set to radians by in the MAIN MENU going to
graph and then SHIFT SET UP and scroll down to check that the angle is in radians.
Press EXIT, and enter the function
sin x
y e = and set the view menu as shown by
pressing SHIFT F3 V-Window. The 12.5663706 for Xmax can be entered by keying
in 4 and 1.57079632 for the scale, by keying in
2

. Press EXIT and then F6

DRAW to obtain the graph. Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and F4 Y-ICPT to see that the y-
intercept is 1.
We can see from the graph that
sin x
y e = repeats itself after 2 , therefore the
frequency or period is 2 . We also notice that the curve does not cut the x-axis. To
find the maximum and minimum points press F5 G-Solv followed by F2 MAX for
maximum points and F3 MIN. To obtain the second maximum and minimum points
press the right REPLAY button.
For maximum points write
down (1.57, 2.72) and (7.85,
2.72). For the minimum points
write down (4.71, 0.368) and
(10.9, 0.368) all correct to 3
significant figures.
Now analyse the function
sin x
y e = for
{ }
0 4 x x \
x-axis ( 0 y = )
sin
0
x
e , therefore the curve does not cut the x-axis.
y-axis ( 0 x = )
sin0 0
1 e e = = which gives (0, 1).
x Not required as we have a restricted domain.
y undefined y is defined for all real x in the given domain.
720
D
max/min
sin
( )
x
x e
( )
sin sin
co '( cos s )
x x
e x x x e
( )( ) ( )( )
( )
sin sin
sin 2
"( ) sin c
cos s
s
n
o
i
cos
x x
x
x e x x e
e x
x
x
+

Now for stationary values '( ) 0 x
sin
cos 0
x
e x but 0
x
e

cos 0 x
3 5 7
, , ,
2 2 2 2
x


Using the 2
nd
derivative test
( )
sin 2
"( ) cos sin
x
x e x x we
have
sin
2 2
" cos sin 0
2 2 2 2
e x

j \
, (
( ,
, ] j \ j \ j \
<
, ( , ( , ( , ]
( , ( , ( , ]
is a maximum
point.
3
sin
2 2
3 3 3 3
" cos sin 0
2 2 2 2
e x

j \
, (
( ,
, ] j \ j \ j \
>
, ( , ( , ( , ]
( , ( , ( , ]
is a
minimum point.
5
sin
2 2
5 5 5 5
" cos sin 0
2 2 2 2
e x

j \
, (
( ,
, ] j \ j \ j \
<
, ( , ( , ( , ]
( , ( , ( , ]
is a
maximum point.
7
sin
2 2
7 7 7 7
" cos sin 0
2 2 2 2
e x

j \
, (
( ,
, ] j \ j \ j \
>
, ( , ( , ( , ]
( , ( , ( , ]
is a
minimum point.
and to find the corresponding y-coordinates
sin
1 2

2
e e e

j \
, (
( ,
j \

, (
( ,
giving a maximum point at ,
2
e
j \
, (
( ,
.
3
sin
1 2
3 1

2
e e
e

j \
, (
( ,
j \

, (
( ,
giving a maximum point at
3 1
,
2 e
j \
, (
( ,
.
5
sin
1 2
5

2
e e e

j \
, (
( ,
j \

, (
( ,
giving a maximum point at
5
,
2
e
j \
, (
( ,
.
7
sin
1 2
7 1

2
e e
e

j \
, (
( ,
j \

, (
( ,
giving a maximum point at
7 1
,
2 e
j \
, (
( ,
.



pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x =

( )
( )
2 2
sin 2 s
2
in
2
2
1 s
cos sin 0 but 0
cos sin 0
si in sin n 0 using
1 sin si 0
co
n
s 1
x x
e x x e
x x
x x x x
x x
=
=
=

+
=
=

This equation does not give exact solutions, so we will solve it with our graphics
calculator. Enter in Y2 position
2
1 sin sin y x x = and enter F4 COLR followed
by F1 Orng .





Now find the roots of
2
1 sin sin y x x = using SHIFT F5 G-Solv followed by F1
ROOT. The calculator asks us to decide which equation we want to find the
roots of. Select
2
1 sin sin y x x = by pressing the down REPLAY button
followed by EXE. To find the other roots press the right REPLAY button.










Write down 0.666, 2.48, 6.95 or 8.76 x = correct to 3
significant figures. To find the y-coordinate, first delete
Y2 and press SHIFT F5 G-Solv followed by F6. Select
F1 Y-CAL and enter in 0.66623943248 and press
EXE. This will give the y-coordinate when 0.666 x = .
Repeat for the other x-coordinates.







Notice that the red cursor appears at each point of inflection. We have found
that there are points of inflection at the following coordinates (0.666, 1.86),
(2.48, 1.86), (6.95, 1.86) and (8.76, 1.86).
Sketch
sin x
y e
1
Points of inflection
(8.76, 1.86) (6.95, 1.86)
(2.84, 1.86)
(0.666, 1.86)
7
, 1
2
j \
, (
( ,
3
, 1
2
j \
, (
( ,
5
,
2
e
j \
, (
( ,
,
2
e
j \
, (
( ,
y
x
Restricted domain

0 4 x x \ the range is

1 y y e \ .
"( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x <
Concave Concave Concave Concave Concave
upwards downwards upwards downwards upwards
"(x) > 0 "( ) 0 x < "(x) > 0
Curve Sketching Exponential Functions 1
Sketch the curve
x
y xe =
First draw the curve
x
y xe = using the graphics calculator. First in the MAIN MENU
go to GRAPH and enter in the function
x
y xe = and press SHIFT F3 to set the view
window.
Return to previous menu by pressing EXIT and then
press DRAW F6 to obtain the graph. From the graph it is
possible to see that the only root is at the origin.
To find the coordinates of the minimum point press
SHIFT+F5 G-Solv
The minimum point is (-1, 0.368) correct to 3 S.F.
If we now analyse the function ( )
x
x xe = , we find the following
x-axis ( 0 y = ) 0
x
xe = as 0 0
x
e x = which gives (0, 0).
y-axis ( 0 x = )
0
0 0(1) 0 e = = which again gives (0, 0).
x
0
x y
x y

+ +

The line 0 y = is a horizontal asymptote.
y undefined y is defined for all real x.
max/min ( )
'( ) ( 1)
"( ) 2 ( 2)
x
x x x
x x x x x x
x xe
x xe e e x
x xe e e xe e e x
=
= + = +
= + + = + = +
Now for stationary values '( ) 0 ( 1) 0
x
x e x = + =
but 0 1 0 1
x
e x x + = =
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
"( 1) 0 1 x > = is a minimum point
and to find the corresponding y-coordinate
1
1
( 1) e
e

which gives a minimum point at

1
1,
e
j \

, (
( ,
pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x
( 2) 0
x
e x + but 0 2 0 2
x
e x x +
2
2
2
( 2) 2e
e

which gives a point of inflection at

2
2
2,
e
j \

, (
( ,
Sketch
"( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x <
2
2
2,
e
j \

, (
( ,
1
1,
e
j \

, (
( ,
x
y
x
y xe
Concave
downwards
Concave
upwards
Point of
inflection
Minimum
point
From the sketch it is possible to determine the domain and range
The domain is x \ and the range is
1
y y
e




\
Curve Sketching Exponential Functions 2
Sketch the curve
2 x
y x e =
First draw the curve
2 x
y x e = using the graphics calculator. First in the MAIN MENU
go to GRAPH and enter in the function
2 x
y x e = and press SHIFT F3 to set the view
window.
Return to previous menu by pressing EXIT and then
press DRAW F6 to obtain the graph. From the graph it is
possible to see that the only root is at the origin.
To find the coordinates of the maximum and minimum
point press SHIFT+F5 G-Solv
The maximum point is (-2, 0.541) and the minimum point is (0, 0) correct to 3 S.F.
x-axis ( 0 y = )
2
0
x
x e = as
2
0 0 0
x
e x x = = which gives (0, 0).
y-axis ( 0 x = )
2 0
(0) 0(1) 0 e = = which again gives (0, 0).
x
0
x y
x y
+
+ +

The line 0 y = is a horizontal asymptote.
y undefined y is defined for all real x.
max/min
2
2
2
2
2
( )
'( ) 2 ( 2)
"( ) 2 2 2
4 2
( 4 2)
x
x x x
x x x x
x x x
x
x x e
x x e xe xe x
x x e xe xe e
x e xe e
e x x
=
= + = +
= + + +
= + +
= + +
Now for stationary values '( ) 0 ( 2) 0
x
x xe x = + =
but 0 2 0 2
x
e x x + = = or 0 x = .
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
"( 2) 0 2 x < = is a maximum point
"(0) 0 0 x < = is a minimum point.
and to find the corresponding y-coordinates
2 2
2
4
( 2) ( 2) e
e

= = which gives a minimum point at

2
4
2,
e

2 0
(0) (0) 0 e = = which gives a minimum point at (0, 0).
pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x =
2
( 4 2) 0
x
e x x + + = but
2
0 4 2 0
x
e x x + + =
4 8 4 2 2
2 2
2 2
x

= = = .
Sketch
Points of inflection
Maximum
point
Minimum
point
y
"( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x <
Concave Concave Concave
upwards downwards upwards
2 2 2 2 +
2
4
2,
e

x
2 x
y x e =
"( ) 0 x >
From the sketch it is possible to determine the domain and range
The domain is x \ and the range is
{ }
0 y y > \ .
Curve Sketching Logarithmic Functions
Sketch the curve
2
lnx
y
x
= .
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2
lnx
y
x
= and then press SHIFT
F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. To find the root and the
maximum point, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT and then again SHIFT
F5 G-Solv then select F2 MAX.
Write for the root (1, 0) and for the
maximum point (1.65, 0.184) correct to 3 S.F.
Now analyse the curve
2
lnx
y
x
=
x-axis ( 0 y = )
2
ln
0
x
x
= as
2 0
0 ln 0 1 x x x e = = = which gives (1, 0).
y-axis ( 0 x = ) 0 x does not cut y-axis.
x 0
0
x y
x y
+
+
+

The line 0 x = is a vertical asymptote.
The line 0 y = is a horizontal asymptote.
y undefined y is undefined for
{ }
0 x x \ lnx is undefined for negative x.
max/min
( ) ( )( )
2
2
4 4 3
1 2
ln
( )
1
ln 2
2 ln
( )
l
'
nx
x
x
x
x
x x x
x x x x
x
x x
=

= = =
( ) ( )( )
( )
3 2
6
2
6 4
2
1 2ln 3
"( )
2 3 6l
5 6 n
n
l
x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
j \

, (
( ,

Now for stationary values

3
1 2ln
'( ) 0 0
x
x
x

but
1
2
1
0 1 2ln 0 2ln 1 ln
2
x x x x x e
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
( )
1 1
2 2
" 0 e x e < is a maximum point
and to find the corresponding y-coordinate
( )
( )
1
2
1
2
1
2
2
ln 1
e
2
e
e
e
which gives a maximum point at
1
2
1
,
2
e
e
j \
, (
( ,
.
pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x
4
5 6ln
0
x
x

but
5
6
5
0 5 6ln 0 ln
6
x x x x e +
and to find the corresponding y-coordinate
( )
( )
5
6
5
6
5
5
3
6
2
ln 5
e
6
e
e
e
which gives a pt of inflection at
5
6
5
3
5
,
6
e
e
j \
, (
( ,
.
Sketch
From the graph we can see that the domain is

0 x x > \
and range is
1
2
y y
e




\ .
Concave Concave
downwards upwards
2
lnx
y
x

5
6
5
6
5
,
6
e
e
j \
, (
( ,
1
2
1
,
2
e
e
j \
, (
( ,
(1, 0)
x
y
"( ) 0 x < "( ) 0 x >
Curve Sketching Logarithmic Functions 2
Sketch the curve
2
ln(1 ) y x = + .
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2
ln(1 ) y x = + and then press
SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. To find the root which is also
the minimum point, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT and then again
SHIFT F5 G-Solv then select F2 MAX. Write down (0, 0).
Now analyse the curve
2
ln(1 ) y x = +
x-axis ( 0 y = )
2 2 2
ln(1 ) 0 1 1 0 0 x x x x + = + = = = which gives (0, 0).
y-axis ( 0 x = )
2
ln 1 (0) ln1 0 y = + = =

which gives (0, 0).
x very slowly
very slowly
x y
x y
+ +
+
y undefined y is defined for x \
max/min
2
2
( ) ln(1 )
'( )
2
1
x
x
x
x
x
= +
=
+
2
2 2
2 2 2
2 2 2 2 2 2
(1 )(2) (2 )(2 )
"( )
(1 )
2(1 2 ) 2(1 )
(1 ) (
2(1 )(1
1
)
(1 ) )
x x x
x x
x
x
x x x
x x x
+
=
+
+
= = =
+ +
+
+
Now for stationary values
2
2
'( ) 0 0
1
x
x
x
= =
+
but
2
1 0 2 0 0 x x x + = =
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
( ) " 0 0 0 x > = is a minimum point.
To find the corresponding y-coordinate
( )
2
0 ln 1 (0) ln1 0 = + = =

, which gives a minimum point at
(0, 0).
pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x =
2 2
2(1 )(1 )
0
(1 )
x x
x
+
=
+
but
2
1 0 (1 )(1 ) 0 1 x x x x + + = =
and to find the corresponding y-coordinates
( )
2
1 ln 1 ( 1) ln2 = + =

which gives points of inflection at
( 1, ln2) and (1, ln2) .
Sketch
From the graph we can see that the domain is x \
and range is
{ }
0 y y \ .
"(x) < 0
Points of inflection
Concave Concave Concave
downwards upwards downwards
2
ln(1 ) y x = +
( ) 1, ln2 ( ) 1, ln2
(0, 0)
x
y
"( ) 0 x < "( ) 0 x >
Minimum point
Curve Sketching The Bilinear Function
Sketch the curve
2 3
2
x
y
x

.
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2 3
2
x
y
x

and then press

SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. To find the x-intercept, press
SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT. For the y-intercept press SHIFT F5 G-Solv
and select F4 Y-ICPT. Write down (1.5, 0) and (0, 1.5). Notice there are no
maximum or minimum points.
We can notice that the graph has both a vertical and horizontal asymptote. The
vertical asymptote is 2 x = and the horizontal asymptote is 2 y = , which we will now
draw on our graph. Press EXIT type in 2 y = . For 2 x = you have to press F3 TYPE
and then F4 X C = then enter in 2 x = .
Then scroll back up to the top. To change the colour of the graphs of the asymptotes
to orange, place the cursor on the required graph 2 y = , press F4 COLR and then
F2 Orng and the cursor will change to orange. Repeat the process for the other
asymptote 2 x = .
Now press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph of
2 3
2
x
y
x

in blue and the asymptotes 2 x = and 2 y =

in orange.
Now analyse the curve
2 3
2
x
y
x

x-axis ( 0 y = )
2 3
0
2
x
x

as
3
2 0 2 3 0
2
x x x = = ,
which gives
3
, 0
2



.
y-axis ( 0 x = )
2(0) 3 3
(0) 2 2
y

= =

which gives
3
0,
2



.
x
2 3
2
x
y
x

=
1
2
2 x
+

2
2
x y
x y
+

+

The line 2 y = is a horizontal asymptote.
y undefined y is undefined for 2 0 2 x x = = . This gives that y is
undefined for 2 x = .
The line 2 x = is a vertical asymptote. We also note the
following: 2 and 2 x y x y
+
+
max/min
( )( ) ( )( )
( ) ( ) ( )
2 2 2
2 3
( )
2
2 2 2 3 1
2 1 4 2 3
'( )
2 2 2
x
x
x
x x
x x
x
x x x

+
=

= =
( ) ( ) ( )
( )
2 3
3
'( ) 2 "( ) 2
2
1
2
2 x x x x
x

= = =

Now for stationary values

( )
2
1
'( ) 0 0
x 2
x

= =

but 2 0 x therefore no maximum or minimum points.

pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x =
( )
3
2
0
2 x
=

but 2 0 x therefore no points of inflection.

From the graph the Domain is
{ }
2 x x \ and Range is
{ }
2 y x \ .
2
2 3
2
2 4
2
1
x x
x

2 3
2
x
y
x

1.5
1.5
2
x
y
Concave Concave
downwards upwards
"( ) 0 x < "( ) 0 x >
Curve Sketching The Bilinear Function 2
Sometimes the problem is often given in reverse.
Given that the curve below has equation
ax b
y
cx d
+
=
+
find the values of a, b, c and d
First analyse the curve
x-axis 0 1.
3
2
b
ax b
b
x
a a
= + = = !
y-axis
( )
( )
2.
0
3
0
2
a b
b
y
c d
b
d d
+
= = =
+
!
Vertical asymptote 3 0 2 0 2 . cx d c d c d = + = + = !
From 1
3
2
b
a
= we can say , 2 3 a b = =
From 2
3 3
2
3
2 2
b
d d
d =

= =
From 3 2 2 2 1 c d c c = = =
As
2 3
2
ax b x
y
cx d x
+
= =
+
However we could have said the following:
From 1
3
2
b
a
= we can say 2, 3 a b = =
From 2
3 3
2
3
2 2
b
d d
d = = =
From 3 2 1 2 2 c c d c = = =
( )
( )
2 3
2 3 2 3
2 2 2
x
ax b x x
y
cx d x x x

+ +
= = = =
+ +
. This gives the same answer as before.
Therefore 2 3 1 , , and 2. a b c d = = = =
2
ax b
y
cx d
+
=
+
1.5
1.5
2
x
y
Curve Sketching Rational Functions 1
Sketch the curve
2
2
1
x
y
x
=

.
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2
2
1
x
y
x
=

and then press

SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. To find the root and the
maximum point, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT and then again SHIFT
F5 G-Solv then select F2 MAX.
Write for the root (0, 0) and for the
maximum point (0, 0).
We can notice that the graph has both vertical and
horizontal asymptotes. The vertical asymptotes are
1 x = and the horizontal asymptote is 1 y = , which we will now draw on our graph.
Press EXIT type in 1 y = . For 1 x = you have to press F3 TYPE and then F4 X C =
then enter in 1 x = and 1 x = .
Then scroll back up to the top. To change the colour of the graphs of the asymptotes
to orange, place the cursor on the required graph 1 y = , press F4 COLR and then F2
Orng and the cursor will change to orange repeat the process for the other
asymptotes 1 x = and 1 x = .
Now press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph of
2
2
1
x
y
x
=

in blue and the asymptotes 1 x = , 1 x =

and 1 y = in orange.
Now analyse the curve
2
2
1
x
y
x
=

x-axis ( 0 y = )
2
2
0
1
x
x
=

as
2 2
1 0 0 0 x x x = = which gives (0, 0).
y-axis ( 0 x = )
2
2
(0)
0
(0) 1
y = =

which gives (0, 0).

x
2
2
1
x
y
x
=

=
2
1
1
1 x
+

1
1
x y
x y
+
+
+

The line 1 y = is a horizontal asymptote.
y undefined y is undefined for
2
1 0 ( 1)( 1) 0 x x x = + = . This gives that
y is undefined for 1 x = .
The lines 1 x = are vertical asymptotes. We also note the
following.
1 and 1
1 and 1
x y x y
x y x y
+
+
+
+
max/min
( )( ) ( )( )
( )
( )
( ) ( )
2
2
2 2 2 2
2 2
2
2
2 2
( )
1
1 2 2 2 1
'( )
1 1 1
2
x
x
x
x x x x x x x
x
x
x
x x

= =

=

( ) ( ) ( ) ( )( )
( )
( ) ( )
( )
( ) ( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
2
2 2
2
2
2
2
2 2 2 2 2 2
4 4
2 2
2
3
2 2
3
2
1 2 2 2 1 2
"( )
1
2 1 1 4 2 1 8 1
1 1
2 3 1 3
1 1
2 1
x x x x
x
x
x x x x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x



=

+

= =


= =
+

Now for stationary values
( )
2
2
2
'( ) 0 0
x 1
x
x

= =

but
2
1 0 2 0 0 x x x = =
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
( )
( )
( )
2
3
2
2 3 0 1
" 0 0 0
0 1
x

+

= < =

is a maximum point
2 2
2
1
1
1
1
x x
x

and to find the corresponding y-coordinate

( )
( )
( )
2
2
0
0 0
0 1
= =

which gives a maximum point at (0, 0).

pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x =
( )
( )
2
3
2
2 3 1
0
1
x
x
+
=

but
2 2
1 0 and 3 1 0 for all x x x + > \.
Therefore there are no points of inflection.
From the graph we can see that the domain is
{ }
1 x x \
and range is
{ }
0 or 1 y y y > \ .
2
2
1
x
y
x
=

1
-1 1
Maximum
at (0, 0)
x
y
Concave Concave Concave
upwards downwards upwards
"( ) 0 x < "( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x >
Curve Sketching Rational Functions 2
Sketch the curve
2
2
2 3 x x
y
x
+
= .
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2
2
2 3 x x
y
x
+
= and then press
SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. To find the root and the
maximum point, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT and right REPLAY
button to find second root. Then press again SHIFT F5 G-Solv then select F2 MAX.
Write for the roots (-3, 0)
and (1, 0) and for the
maximum point ( )
4
3
3, .
We can notice that the graph has a horizontal asymptote. The horizontal asymptote is
1 y = , which we will now draw on our graph.
Press EXIT type in 1 y = . To change the colour of the graph of the asymptote to
orange, place the cursor on the required graph 1 y = , press F4 COLR and then F2
Orng and the cursor will change to orange
Now press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph of
2
2
2 3 x x
y
x
+
= in blue and the asymptote 1 y = in
orange.
Now analyse the curve
2
2
2 3 x x
y
x
+
=
x-axis ( 0 y = )
2
2
2 3
0
x x
x
+
= as ( )
2 2
0 2 3 0 3 ( 1) 0 x x x x x + = + =
3 or 1 x x = = which gives (-3, 0) and (1, 0)
y-axis ( 0 x ) y is undefined for 0 x .
x
2
2 2 2
2 3 2 3 2 3
1 1
x x x
y
x x x x
+
+ +
1
1
x y
x y
+

+

The line 1 y is a horizontal asymptote.
y undefined y is undefined for
2
0 0 x x , which gives that y is
undefined for 0 x .
The line 0 x is a vertical asymptote. We also note the
following.
0 and 0 x y x y
+

max/min
( )( ) ( )( )
( )
( ) ( )
( ) ( )
2
2
2 2
2
2
2
4
2 2
3 3
2 3
( )
2 2 2 3 2
'( )
2 1 2
2
3
3
2 3
2
x x
x
x
x x x x x
x
x
x x x x x
x
x x x
x
x
x
x
+

+ +

, ]
+ +
]

+ +

( )
3 2
3 3 2
4 3
3 4
4
4
6 2 6 2
'( ) 6 2
"( ) 18 4
4 18
4 1
2 2 9
8
x
x x x
x x x
x x x
x x
x
x
x
x

+

Now for stationary values
( )
3
2 3
'( ) 0 0
x
x
x

but
3
0 3 0 3 x x x
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
( )
( )
( )
4
2 2 3 9
" 3 0 3
3
x
, ]
]
< is a maximum point
2 2
2
2 3
1
2 3
x x
x
x
x
+

and to find the corresponding y-coordinate

( )
( ) ( )
( )
2
2
3 2 3 3
12 4
3
9 3
3
+
which gives a maximum point
at
4
3,
3
j \
, (
( ,
.
pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x
( )
4
2 2 9
0
x
x

but
4
9
0 2 9 0
2
x x x .
( ) ( )
( )
2
9 9
2 2
2
9
2
2 3
9 35

2 27
+
j \

, (
( ,
.
9 35
,
2 27
j \
, (
( ,
is a point of inflection.
Sketch
From the graph we can see that the domain is

0 x x \
and range is
4
3
y y




\ .
Point of inflection
at
9 35
,
2 27
j \
, (
( ,
2
2
2 3 x x
y
x
+

1
-3 1
Maximum
at
4
3,
3
j \
, (
( ,
x
y
Concave Concave Concave
downwards downwards upwards
"( ) 0 x < "( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x <
NOT TO
SCALE
Curve Sketching Rational Functions 3
Sketch the curve
2
4 3
2
x x
y
x
+
=

.
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2
4 3
2
x x
y
x
+
=

and then press

SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. To find the root and the
maximum point, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT which gives the first x-
intercept (1, 0). Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F4 Y-ICPT to find the y-intercept.
Write down (0, -1.5).
Press the right REPLAY
button to find the second
x-intercept at (3, 0). Press
SHIFT F5 G-Solv and
select F4 Y-ICPT to find
the y-intercept. Write
down (0, -1.5).
The curve has one vertical asymptote at 2 x = and no horizontal asymptote.
However its has an oblique asymptote (slant) which is the line 2 y x = , which will
discuss when we analyse the curve. Press EXIT and enter the two equations
remembering to change the type or 2 x = and colour for both asymptotes.
Now analyse the curve
2
4 3
2
x x
y
x
+
=

x-axis ( 0 y = )
2
4 3
0
2
x x
x
+
=

as
2
2 0 4 3 0 x x x + =
( )( ) 1 3 0 x x = which gives (1, 0) and (3, 0)
y-axis ( 0 x = )
2
(0) 4(0) 3 3
(0) 2 2
y
+
= =

which gives
3
0,
2

x When the degree of the numerator is more than the degree of
the denominator an oblique asymptote will occur
2
4 3
2
x x
y
x
+
=

=
1
2
2
x
x

( 2)
( 2)
x y x
x y x

+
+

The line 2 y x = is an oblique
asymptote.
y undefined y is undefined for 2 0 x = . This gives that y is undefined for
2 x = . The line 2 x = is a vertical asymptote. We also note the
following. 2 and 2 x y x y
+
+
max/min ( )
( ) ( )
( )
( )
( )
2
1
2
2
2
2
4 3 1
( ) 2 2 2
2 2
1
'( )
2
1
1
2
2 1 1
2
x x
x x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x

+
= = =

= +
+
=

= +
Using ( )
2
'( ) 1 2 x x

= +
( ) ( )
( )
3
3
"( ) 2 2 1
2
2
x x
x

= =

Now for stationary values

( )
( )
2
2
2 1
'( ) 0 0
2
x
x
x
+
= =

but ( )
2
2 0 and 2 1 0 x x + > for all x \, therefore no
maximum and minimum points.
pts of inflection For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x =
( )
3
2
0
2 x

but 2 0 x ,therefore there are no points of

inflection.
Domain is
{ }
2 x x \ and range is y \ .
2
( 2) 1 y x = +
1.5
2
2
2
2
2 4 3
2
2
2
1
3
4
x x
x x
x
x
x
x
+

2
4 3
2
x x
y
x
+
=

1
-2
3
x
y
Concave Concave
upwards downwards
"( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x <
Curve Sketching Rational Functions 4
Sketch the curve
2
3
3 2
x
y
x x

.
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2
3
3 2
x
y
x x

and then press
SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. We notice that something does
not look quite right due to an asymptote and therefore we change x-axis and y-axis
in the view window as shown in the diagram below. Then, press EXIT and F6 DRAW
and we obtain a better-looking graph.
To find the x-intercept and y-intercept, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT
and then SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F4 Y-ICPT. Write down (3, 0) and (0, -1.5).

We notice that there are two vertical asymptotes, which we will find later and that
there is a horizontal asymptote at 0 y . Notice that there are no maximum or
minimum points, but there is a point of inflection near 2 x .
Now analyse the curve
2
3
3 2
x
y
x x

x-axis ( 0 y )
2
3
0
3 2
x
x x

as
2
3 2 0 3 0 3 x x x x
which gives (3, 0).
y-axis ( 0 x )
( )
( ) ( )
2
3 0
3
2
0 3 0 2
y



which gives
3
0,
2
j \

, (
( ,
.
x The most dominant part of
2
3
3 2
x
y
x x

is
2
1 x
x x

0
0
x y
x y

+
+

The line 0 y is a horizontal asymptote.
y undefined y is undefined for
2
2
3 3 4(1)( 2) 3 17
3 2 0
2(1) 2
x x x

, which gives
that y is undefined for
3 17
2
x

.The lines
3 17
2
x

are
vertical asymptotes. We also note the following.
3 17 3 17
and
2 2
x y x y
+
j \ j \

+
, ( , (
, ( , (
( , ( ,
3 17 3 17
and
2 2
x y x y
+
j \ j \
+ +
+
, ( , (
, ( , (
( , ( ,
Now drawing the vertical asymptotes onto our graph.
Remember to change TYPE F3 to x is a constant and the
colour COLR F4 to orange we obtain the following graph.
max/min
( )( ) ( )( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
2
2
2
2
2 2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2 2
2
2
2
2
3
( )
3 2
3 2 1 3 2 3
'( )
3 2
3 2 6 9 2
3 2
3
3
3 2
3
2
6 11
3 2
2 6 9 2 3
3 2
x
x x
x
x
x x
x x x x
x
x x
x x x x x
x x
x x
x
x x x x x
x x
x

+ + +

+
+ + + +

( ) ( ) ( ) ( )( )
( )
( ) ( )( ) ( )( )
( )
( )
( )
2
2 2 2
2
2
2
2 2 2
4
2
3 2 2 3 2 2
3
2
3 2 2 3 2 2
3 2 2 6 6 11 2 3 2 2 3
"( )
3 2
2 3 2 3 3 2 2 3 6 11
3 2
2 3 2 3 9 6 2 12 22 3 18 33
3 2
2 3 2 3 9 6 2 12 22 3 18
x x x x x x x x
x
x x
x x x x x x x x
x x
x x x x x x x x x x
x x
x x x x x x x x x x
, ]
+
]

, ]

, ]
]
, ]
+
]

, ]
+ + + +
]

+ + + + +

( )
( )
( )
3
2
3 2
3
2
2 9 33 39
3
33
3 2
2
x x x
x x
x x
+ +

]
]

( )
2
3 2 y x +
( )
( )
2
2
2
3 2
'( ) 0 0
3 2
x
x
x x
+


but
( )
2
3 2 0 x x and
( )
2
3 2 0 x + > for x \ therefore no maximum or minimum
points.
pts of inflection
( )
( )
3 2
3
2
2 9 33 39
"( ) 0 0
3 2
x x x
x
x x
+ +


but
( )
2
3 2 0 x x
and therefore we have to solve
3
9 33 39 0 x x x + + . Using a graphics calculator
in the MAIN MENU go to EQUA. Press F2 Polynomial and select F2 Degree 3.
Enter in the coefficients 1, 9, -33, 39 and press F1 SOLV. Write down the one real
solution 2.1153778 x . Press EXIT and return to the graph in the GRAPH and
press F5 G-Solv followed by F6.
Press F1 Y-CAL and enter 2.1153778 x followed by EXE and this will give the y-
coordinate of the point of inflection. Write down (2.12, -0.229). Notice the position of
the cursor at the point of inflection. Or calculate the y-coordinate in the RUN MENU.
In the RUN MENU, press OPTN, F4 CALC and then F3
2
d dx .
Enter the original function
2
3
( )
3 2
x
x
x x

followed by a coma 2.1153778 x
then EXE. The calculator returns an answer of 0, which is what we would expect for
the second derivative at a point of inflection.
OR
Another way that we can find the point of inflection is to graph the function of the
second derivative
( )
( )
3 2
3
2
2 9 33 39
y "( )
3 2
x x x
x
x x
+ +
= =

. In GRAPH MENU delete all
existing graphs enter
( )
( )
3 2
3
2
2 9 33 39
y "( )
3 2
x x x
x
x x
+ +
= =

and set the view window as
below. Press EXIT and then F6 DRAW.
The point of inflection occurs when "( ) 0 x = . Press SHIFT
F5 G-SLV followed by F1 ROOT. We obtain the answer
2.115377996 x = , for the point of inflection, which is
2.12 x = to 3S.F.
Sketch
From the graph we can see that the domain is
3 17
2
x x






\
and range is y \ .
"( ) 0 x >
3 17
2
3 17
2
+
Point of inflection
at (2.12, -0.229)
2
3
3 2
x
y
x x

=

-1.5
3
x
y
Concave Concave Concave Concave
upwards downwards upwards downwards
"( ) 0 x < "( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x <
NOT TO
SCALE
Curve Sketching Absolute Value Functions 1
Sketch the curve 2 3 y x = .
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH. To enter 2 3 y x = press OPTN
followed by F5 NUM and F1 Abs then ( ) 2 3 x . Press SHIFT F3 V-Window and set
the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. To find the root and the
minimum point, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT and then again SHIFT
F5 G-Solv then select F3 MIN. Write down (1.5, 0) in both cases.
Notice that the minimum point is not a stationary point as
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )( )
( )
( )
( )
1 1
2 2 2
2 2
2
1
2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 2 3 2
2
2 2 3 2 2 3

2 3
2 3
d d d
x x x x x
dx dx dx
x x
x
x

= = =


= =

Now for a stationary value

( ) 2 2 3
'( ) 0 0
2 3
x
x
x

= =

which
is not possible.
To find the y-intercept, press F5 G-Solv followed by F4
Y-ICPT. Write down (0, 3)
If we now draw 2 3 y x = on the same axes changing the colour to orange by
pressing F4 COLR followed by F2 Orng. Press EXIT F6 DRAW.
From the graph of 2 3 y x =
we can obtain the graph of
2 3 y x = by reflected the
negative part in the x-axis.
This would include any
horizontal asymptotes.
Sketch
2 3 y x =
3
y
x 1.5
2 3 y x =
Using the above method given ( ) y x = it is possible to draw ( ) y x = . The graphs
calculator can verify this result for
2
1
x
y
x

=
+
. Note
2
1
x
y
x

=
+
is drawn in orange.
The graph of
2
1
x
y
x

=
+
is shown alone here.
Sketch
1 1
-1 2 2
2
-2
x
y
x
y
( ) y x =
( ) y x =
Curve Sketching Absolute Value Functions 2
Sketch the curve 2 1 y x x = + .
This graph requires a different approach.
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH and enter 2 1 y x x = + . Press
SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Press EXIT followed by F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv then
F1 ROOT then F5 G-Solv followed by F4 Y-ICPT. Write down (0.5, 0) and (0, 1).
To draw 2 1 y x x = + without a calculator first determine that the critical values
of this function are 1 x = and 2 x = .
Now for 1 x < [ ] ( 2) ( 1) 2 1 3 y x x x x = + = + + + =
Draw 3 y =
1 2 x < < ( 2) ( 1) 2 1 2 1 y x x x x x = + = + = +
Draw 2 1 y x = +
2 x > 2 ( 1) 2 1 3 y x x x x = + = =
Draw 3 y =
2 1 y x = +
3 y =
1 2
y
x
2 1 y x x = +
3 y =
2 x > 1 2 x < < 1 x <
Drawing
1
( )
y
x

from
( ) y x
To be able to define some rules for drawing
1
( )
y
x
from ( ) y x , lets take a
specific example, drawing
2
1
6 5
y
x x

+
from
2
6 5 y x x + .
First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter
2
6 5 y x x + and then press
SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to draw the graph. To find the roots, press SHIFT
F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT. To obtain the second root press the right REPLAY
button.
Write down (1, 0) and (5, 0). To find the y-intersect press SHIFT F5 G-Solv followed
by F4 Y-ICPT, write down (0, 5). To obtain the minimum point press SHIFT F5 G-
Solv followed by F3 MIN. Write down (3, -4).
Notice as well, that as , x y and as , x y .
Now we will draw
2
1
6 5
y
x x

+
on the same graph, in a different colour green. In
the graph menu enter in the Y2 position
2
1
6 5
y
x x

+
then press F4 COLR
followed by F3 Grn.
Notice that the graph of
2
1
6 5
y
x x

+
does not cut the x-axis. Trying to find any
roots using the graphics calculator by pressing SHIFT F5 G-Solv followed by F1
ROOT and selecting Y2
2
1
6 5
y
x x

+
using the down REPLAY button gives the
result, Not Found.
This is because on the x-axis
( ) 0 x , and hence
1
0
is
undefined. Therefore 1 x
and 5 x are undefined on
2
1
6 5
y
x x

+
and are vertical asymptotes. To draw
these asymptotes in orange press EXIT followed by F3 TYPE and then select F4
X=C. Enter in 1 x and 5 x select F4 COLR followed by F2 Orng.
Rule 1: When ( ) 0 x then
1
( ) x
is undefined hence
these values of x are
vertical asymptotes.
To see what happens to the y-intercept, press SHIFT F5 G-Solv followed by
F4 Y-ICPT and selecting Y2 (down REPLAY) then EXE.
Write down (0, 0.2). Notice that on ( ) y x the y-intercept
is 5 y and on
1
( )
y
x
the y-intercept is
1
5
y (0.2).
Rule 2: If the y-intercept on ( ) y x is (0, c) then on
1
( )
y
x
, the y-intercept
will be
1
0,
c
j \ j \ j \ j \
, ( , ( , ( , (
( , ( , ( , ( ,
.
We notice that
1
( )
y
x
does not have a minimum point but
a maximum point. Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv followed by F2
MAX and selecting Y2 (down REPLAY) then EXE. Write
down (3, -0.25). On ( ) y x there was a minimum point at
(3, -4) and on
1
( )
y
x
there is a maximum point at
1
3,
4
j \

, (
( ,
.
Rule 3: If at ( (( ( ) )) )
1 1
, x x , ] , ] , ] , ]
] ] ] ]
there is a maximum/minimum point on ( ) y x , then
at
( (( ( ) )) )
1
1
1
,

x
x
, ] , ] , ] , ]
, ] , ] , ] , ]
] ] ] ]
there will be a minimum/maximum on
1
( )
y
x
.
Rule 4: From the graph of
1
( )
y
x
it can be seen that if ( ) x then
1
0
( ) x
as
1
0

.
Rule 5: From the graph of
1
( )
y
x
it can be seen that if ( ) 0 x > >> > then
1
0
( ) x
> >> >
and if ( ) 0 x < << < then
1
0
( ) x
< << < .
Sketches
The domain from graph is x \ and the range is y \ .
The domain from graph is

1or 5 x x x \ and the range is

0 y x \ .
5 1
(0, 5)
(5, 0)
Concave
upwards
2
6 5 y x x +
(1, 0) x
y
"( ) 0 x >
Minimum point at (3, -4)
"(x) < 0
1
0,
5
j \
, (
( ,
Concave Concave Concave
upwards downwards upwards
2
1
6 5
y
x x

+
x
y
"( ) 0 x > "( ) 0 x >
Minimum point
at
1
3,
4
j \

, (
( ,
MATHEMATICS Curve Sketching Examination
Unless otherwise stated in the question, all numerical answers, which are not
exact, should be given correct to three significant figures.
1. a. If "( ) 12 6 x x = , find the x-coordinate of the point of inflection of
( ) y x = .
b. Given at 2 x = there is a stationary point on ( ) y x = , find a function for
the gradient.
c. The curve ( ) y x = cuts the y-axis at (0, 2) find ( ) x .
d. Find the y coordinate of the point of inflection.
e. Use your graphics calculator to find the coordinates of the minimum and
maximum points.
f. Use Calculus to prove what you have found with your calculator.
g. Solve the equation ( ) 0 x = .
h. Sketch the curve ( ) y x = , labelling clearly all the points you found.
2. Given that the curve below has equation
ax b
y
cx d
+
=
+
find the values of a, b, c
and d
Check your answer using a graphics calculator.
3. Consider the curve
ln
x
y
x
=
a. Determine whether the curve cuts the x and y-axis.
b. Analyse the following 0 x
+
and x .
c. State the value of
{ }
0 x x > \ for which y is undefined.
d. Find '( ) x and "( ) x .
e. Find any stationary points and determine nature of any such points
f. Prove that there is a point of inflection at
2 2
1
,
2
e e



.
g. Hence sketch the curve.
h. State the domain and range.
- 2
ax b
y
cx d
+
=
+
1
- 4
2
x
y
Solutions
1. a. "( ) 12 6 x x =
For a point of inflection "( ) 0 12 6 0 2 x x x = = =
b. ( )
2
'( ) 12 6 12 3 x x dx x x c = = +

We are told there is a stationary point at 2 x = '( 2) 0 =

( ) ( ) 12 2 3 2 0
24 12 0
36
c
c
c
+ =
+ =
=
2
'( ) 36 12 3 x x x = +
c.
( )
2 3
( ) 36 12 3 36 6 x x x dx x x x k = + = + +

However the curve cuts the y-axis at (0, 2) (0) 2 =

( ) ( ) ( )
2 3
36 0 6 0 0 2
2
k
k
+ + =
=
2 3
( ) 2 36 6 x x x x = + +
d. To find the y-coordinate of the point of inflection we need to find (2) .
( ) ( ) ( )
2 3
(2) 2 36 2 9 6 2 2 0 = + + =
e. Using a graphics calculator we now sketch
2 3
2 36 6 y x x x = + +
Go to MAIN MENU and select GRAPH followed by EXE. Enter
2 3
2 36 6 y x x x = + + and set to the view window by pressing SHIFT F3.
Press EXIT followed by F6 DRAW. With the above settings of the view
window we obtain a graph which does not look right. Press SHIFT F2 Zoom
then F5 AUTO. This has the affect of adjusting the y-range view window so
that the graph fills the screen along the y-axis.
Sometimes some further zooming is necessary. Press SHIFT F2 Zoom
again followed by F1 BOX. Move the cursor to the position shown in the
middle diagram below and press EXE. This anchors the box, then move the
cursor to the position shown in the third diagram.
Press EXE to obtain the final graph. Now to find
the maximum and minimum point press SHIFT F5
G-Solv, press F3 MIN for the minimum point.
Repeat the process, but this time press F2 MAX to
for the maximum point.
Write down minimum at (-2, -38) and maximum at (6, 218).
f. For the stationary values '( ) 0 x =

( )
2 2
2
36 12 3 0
4 3 12 0
x x
x x
+ =
+ =

product 12
sum 4
factors 2, 6
=
=
=

( ) ( )
( )( )
2
12 0
2 6 6 0
6
6 2 0
2 x
x
x x
x x
x x
+ =
+ =
+ =
2 or 6 x =
Using the 2
nd
Derivative Test we have
"(-2) 0 > a minimum point and "(6) 0 < a maximum point. (-2) 38 = and
(6) 218 = . This gives a minimum at (-2, -38) and maximum at (6, 218).
g. Solving
2 3
( ) 0 2 36 6 0 x x x x = + + = which
we can solve by seeing where, the graph of
( ) y x = cuts the x-axis. Press SHIFT F5 G-Solv
followed by F1 ROOT.
Write down 3.67, 0.0561or 9.72 x = correct to 3 significant figures.
h. The Sketch remembering to label clearly all points of interest.
2. Consider
ax b
y
cx d
+
=
+
.
x-axis ( 0) y = 0
b
ax b x
a
+ = = .
The curve cuts the x-axis at 2 . 2 1
b
a
x = = !
y-axis ( 0) x =
b
y
d
= . The curve cuts the y-axis at 4 2. 4
b
d
y = = !
y undefined 0 cx d + = . y is undefined at 1 0 3. c d x c d = + = = !
From 1. 2
b
a
= , let 1 and 2 a b = =
From 2.
2 1
4 4
2
b
d
d d

= = =
From 3.
1
2
c d c = =
1 1
2 2
2 2 4
1
ax b x x
y y
cx d x x
+
= = =
+ +
, , an
1 1
1 2
2
d
2
a b c d = = = = or , , and 2 4 1 1 a b c d = = = = .
9.72
(0, 2) -0.0561
-3.67
Point of
inflection at
(2, 90)
Maximum
point at
(6, 218)
2 3
2 36 6 y x x x = + +
Minimum
point at
(-2, -38)
x
y
NOT TO
SCALE
3. Consider
ln
x
y
x

First go to the MAIN MENU and select GRAPH enter

ln
x
y
x
and then press
SHIFT F3 V-Window and set the view window as shown in the diagram.
Then press EXIT and F6 DRAW to obtain the graph. At first sight it appears
that the curve cut the axes at the origin, which it does not. To find if there is a
root press SHIFT F5 G-Solv and select F1 ROOT. Notice that the calculator
cannot find a root.
Press again SHIFT F5 G-Solv then select F2 MIN. Notice that the calculator
gives an erroneous answer due to an asymptote at 1 x . Press the right
REPLAY button will give the minimum point at (2.72, 2.72) correct to 3
significant figures. We can also draw the asymptote 1 x on our graph in a
different colour. You have to change the TYPE F3 to X=C F4 and COLR F4
orng F2.
a. ( )
ln
x
x
x

x-axis ( 0 y ) 0 0
ln
x
x
x
. Not possible as ln(0) is undefined. Does
not cross x-axis.
y-axis ( 0 x ) 0 x therefore curve does not cut y-axis.
b. from calculator 0 0
very slowly
x y
x y
+

+ +
c. For

0 x x > \ ln 0 1 x x . Therefore 1 x is a vertical asymptote
and the curve is undefined. As 1 x y

and as 1 x y
+
+.
d.
( )( ) ( )
( ) ( )
2 2
( )
ln
1
ln
ln 1
ln
1
'( )
ln
x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x x

j \

(
( ,

( ) ( )( )
( )
( )
( ) ( )
2
2
4 3
2
1 1
ln 2 ln 1 ln
"( )
ln
ln ln 2ln 2
l
2 ln
l n n
x x x
x x
x
x
x x x
x
x
x x x
j \ j \

, ( , (
( , ( ,

, ]
]
+


e. Now for stationary values
( )
2
ln 1
'( ) 0 0
ln
x
x
x

but ( )
2
ln 0 x ln 1 0 ln 1 x x x e
Using the 2
nd
derivative test we have
( )
( )
3
2 ln 2 1
" 1 0
1
ln
e
e x e
e e

> is a minimum point.
( )
ln
e
e e
e
. Therefore ( , ) e e is a minimum point.
f. For points of inflection we have "( ) 0 x
( )
3
2 ln
0
ln
x
x x

but ( )
3
2
ln 0 2 ln 0 ln 2 x x x x x e
and to find the corresponding y-coordinate
( )
2
2 2
2
1

ln 2
e
e e
e

which gives a point of inflection at
2 2
1
,
2
e e
j \
, (
( ,
.
g. Sketch the curve remembering to mark on points of interest.
h. From the graph the domain is

0, 1 x x x > \ and the range is

0 or y y y e < \ .
1
Point of inflection at
2 2
1
,
2
e e
j \
, (
( ,
ln
x
y
x

Curve does
not cut at
(0, 0)
x
y
Minimum point at (e, e)
Appendix
The Casio Graphics Calculator can draw some standard curves without setting the
view window. Go to the MAIN MENU and select run. Press SHIFT F4 Sketch then F5
GRPH followed by F1 Y=.
Now enter the graph a standard curve without writing the variable x, as shown below.
The view window is adjusted automatically. After each graph press AC.
{ }
sin
for 2 2
y x
x x
=
\
{ }
cos
for 2 2
y x
x x
=
\
tan
3 5
for
2 2
y x
x x

=




\
arcsin y x =
arccos y x =
arctan y x =
x
y e =
ln y x =
10
x
y =
log y x =
2
y x =
y x =
3
y x =
1
y
x
=