Expert: Paul Klarreich - 2/9/2011

Question
Describe how each graph translates the graph of y = f(x).
a. y = f(x) - 3
I have already tried to do
f(x) = - 3 and y = - 3x but then I get confused because I do not know if it right or if i am missing a step in the process.

Answer
Questioner: Diamond  
Country: United States
Category: Calculus
Private: No
Subject: Algebra 2/ Trig Lines in Motion
Question: Describe how each graph translates the graph of y = f(x).
a. y = f(x) - 3
I have already tried to do
f(x) = - 3 and y = - 3x but then I get confused because I do not know if it right or if i am missing a step in the process.
.........................................
When you have a graph for

y = f(x)

and you have

y = f(x) + A,

you are adding A to each y.  That moves every point:

Up   if A > 0
Down if A < 0

Does that do it?