Enter an equation, choose a useful viewing window, draw the graph and inspect important points.
1. Enter the function
Press Y=. Move to Y1 and enter X^2-4. Use the calculator's X,T,θ,n key for the variable.
Y1 = X² - 4
2. Set a standard window
Press WINDOW and use Xmin = -10, Xmax = 10, Ymin = -10 and Ymax = 10. This range is a useful starting point for many algebra graphs.
3. Draw the graph
Press GRAPH. You should see an upward-opening parabola whose lowest point is near (0,-4).
4. Trace important points
Press TRACE, then use the left and right arrow keys. The coordinate readout gives approximate x- and y-values. For exact zeros, use 2nd → TRACE (CALC) → zero.
Worked example: locate the right x-intercept
- Open the CALC menu with 2nd → TRACE.
- Select zero.
- Move the cursor to the left of x = 2 and press ENTER.
- Move to the right of x = 2 and press ENTER.
- Move near the crossing and press ENTER for the guess.
Troubleshooting
Blank graph
Check that the equals sign beside Y1 is highlighted and reset with ZOOM → 6:ZStandard.
Wrong trig shape
Confirm whether the problem expects Degree or Radian mode.
Graph looks flat
The y-range may be too wide. Reduce Ymin and Ymax.
Unexpected vertical lines
Discontinuities may be joined visually. Inspect with TRACE and TABLE.
Practice
Graph Y1=2X+3. Predict the y-intercept before pressing GRAPH.
Reveal the answer
The line crosses the y-axis at (0,3) and has slope 2.
Practice with the calculator open
Use the guide in one tab and the calculator in another.
Editorial note: This guide is independently written for classroom practice and was reviewed against the TI-84 Plus CE guidebook. Button labels and menu availability can vary by model and operating-system version.