You now have enough information to sketch polynomial functions without the use of technology.
Here is an outline of the steps to use:
Step 1: Determine the end behaviour by looking at the degree of the polynomial and the sign of the leading coefficient.
Step 2: Factor the polynomial if it is not given in the problem.
Step 3: Determine the x-intercepts by looking at the factors of the polynomial.
Step 4: Determine the y-intercept by substituting zero into the function.
Step 5: Determine the nature of the x-intercepts (whether there is a sign change) by looking at the multiplicity of the polynomial’s factors.
Step 6: Draw a smooth curve through the x- and y-intercepts.
Watch Sketching Polynomial Functions to see an example of graphing a function without using technology.
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