Factored Form
Graphing
To graph a quadratic equation in factored form, first identify the x-intercepts. Use the a-value to determine if the graph will open up or down. The vertex of the parabola can be found exactly midway between the two x-intercepts, using the symmetry of the parabola. It is then possible to find the y-intercept by substituting x = 0 into the equation and solving. Finally, use the symmetry of the graph to find a point on the other side of the axis of symmetry.