Graphing Calculator

What the graphing calculator is for

This tool draws the curve of a function in the form y = f(x), so you can actually see its shape instead of guessing from the equation. Type something like x^2 - 3 or sin(x), and the graph plots every point across the visible window. It is handy for algebra homework, checking where a parabola crosses the x-axis, comparing two curves, or just building intuition about how changing a number in the equation moves the line.

When you would reach for it

Students use it to verify answers on quadratics, absolute value, and trig problems. Teachers use it to show a graph on a shared screen without opening bulky software. If you are studying for the SAT or a calculus exam and want to preview what 1/x looks like near zero, or spot the vertex of -(x-2)² + 5, this gets you there in seconds. It reads standard notation: ^ for powers, * for multiply, and built-in functions like sqrt, abs, log, and sin/cos/tan (angles in radians).

How it works

Everything renders live in your browser using your device. Nothing you type is uploaded. When you zoom or pan, the tool re-samples the function across the new range, so a curve that looked like a straight line up close reveals its bend when you zoom out. Vertical asymptotes (like in tan(x)) show as steep jumps rather than solid lines, which is normal and expected.

How to use it

1. Type a function of x into the input, for example x^3 - 2*x. Use ^ for exponents and * between a number and a variable.
2. Press Enter or Plot. The curve appears on the grid with the x- and y-axes labeled.
3. Scroll or pinch to zoom, and drag to pan, until the interesting part of the curve (a root, a peak, an intersection) is in view.
4. Edit the equation and re-plot to compare shapes, or add a second function to see where two curves meet.

FAQ

Why does my graph look empty or flat?

The curve is probably outside the current window. Zoom out or pan until it comes into view. Also double-check syntax: write 2*x, not 2x, and x^2, not x2.

Does it use degrees or radians?

Trig functions use radians. To plot in degrees, convert inside the function, for example sin(x*3.14159/180).

Can it graph vertical lines or x = 3?

No. This plots y as a function of x, so each x has one y-value. A true vertical line is not a function and cannot be drawn here.

Is it free?

Yes, it is free and ad-supported, and it runs entirely in your browser with nothing uploaded.