To wrap it up: sketch the graph by finding the axis of symmetry first. Always. It’s like putting training wheels on your bike. You’ll wobble less, and you won’t crash into the table of values.
Use the formula x = -b/(2a). Draw the line. Find the vertex. Mirror the points. Boom—perfect graph.
And if you ever forget, just imagine you’re Carla with that lopsided cake. You want to cut it in half so both sides are equal. That’s your axis of symmetry. Now go graph something—and don’t forget the ruler. Or the cake. Preferably both.
