Parabolas are a type of quadratic function. they always have one and only one squared term (either x2 or y2).
The vertex of a parabola is the highest or lowest point of the parabola.
On the left is the graph of a parabola. Below are examples of equations of parabolas.
y=x2
x=y2
x=y2-4
y=x2+2x+3
Plot Points to Create Graph
In order to find the general shape of a parabola and be able to graph it, try plotting points by substituting in values for one variable, usually x, then solving for the other variable, the y value.
On the left is the graph of a parabola. Below are examples of equations of parabolas.