PLEASE HELP, Pre-calc confusion

[Samanthalovesmath]

 

[Dr.Peterson]

First, complete the square, to put it in a form that can be represented as a transformation of y=x^2.

 

[Samanthalovesmath]

ok but then how do I tell if it's reflected on the y or x axis, I'm so confused, sorry I'm so dumb

 

[Deleted member 4993]

ok but then how do I tell if it's reflected on the y or x axis, I'm so confused, sorry I'm so dumb

Do you have a graphing calculator? If you do - use it.

Otherwise use Desmos or Wolframalpha.com.

That will tell you the transformation - graphically.

Reflection about y-axis is indicated when you get the transformed function by replacing '+x' with '-x' in the original given function.

 

[Steven G]

ok but then how do I tell if it's reflected on the y or x axis, I'm so confused, sorry I'm so dumb

No, not ok, 1st complete the square and then we'll help you with the next step