Graph Transformation Calculator

Transform graphs with intuitive controls and previews. See equations, points, and domains update after changes. Plot original and transformed curves for faster visual understanding.

Calculator Inputs

The page stays in a single vertical flow, while the calculator fields use 3 columns on large screens, 2 on medium, and 1 on mobile.

Formula Used

General rule: y = sx · a · f(sy · b · (x − h)) + k

a changes vertical size. If |a| > 1, the graph stretches vertically. If 0 < |a| < 1, it compresses vertically.

b changes horizontal size through the input. If b > 1, the graph compresses horizontally. If 0 < b < 1, it stretches horizontally.

h shifts the graph right when positive and left when negative. k shifts the graph up when positive and down when negative.

sx equals -1 for reflection across the x-axis, otherwise 1. sy equals -1 for reflection across the y-axis, otherwise 1.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Select a parent function such as quadratic, sine, or square root.
  2. Enter the vertical scale factor a.
  3. Enter the horizontal factor b.
  4. Set the horizontal shift h and vertical shift k.
  5. Choose axis reflections when needed.
  6. Set the x-range and plotting density.
  7. Press Calculate Transformation to see the transformed rule, graph, domain, range, and mapped points.
  8. Use the CSV or PDF buttons to download the calculated output.

Example Data Table

Example shown for the quadratic parent function with a = 2, b = 1, h = 1, and k = 3, giving y = 2(x - 1)² + 3.

x Parent y = x² Transformed y = 2(x - 1)² + 3
-1 1 11
0 0 5
1 1 3
2 4 5
3 9 11

FAQs

1. What does a graph transformation calculator do?

It applies shifts, stretches, compressions, and reflections to a chosen parent function. The calculator then shows the transformed equation, graph, domain, range, mapped reference points, and a sample result table.

2. What is the role of the value a?

The value a changes the output height. Large absolute values create vertical stretching. Values between zero and one create vertical compression. A negative effective output flips the graph across the x-axis.

3. What is the role of the value b?

The value b affects the input before the parent function is evaluated. When b is greater than one, the graph compresses horizontally. When b is between zero and one, the graph stretches horizontally.

4. Why does the horizontal shift use x − h?

Inside-function changes work in the opposite visual direction. So x − h moves the graph right by h units, while x + h moves it left by h units.

5. Does the calculator handle restricted domains?

Yes. Square root and reciprocal functions have domain restrictions. The calculator respects those conditions, avoids undefined points, and reports the transformed domain in the results.

6. Can I compare the original and transformed curves?

Yes. The Plotly graph shows both curves together. This makes it easier to see how each parameter changes position, width, direction, and symmetry.

7. What do the mapped reference points mean?

They show how key parent-function points move after transformation. These points help confirm the graph visually and are useful when checking vertex, intercept, or turning-point behavior.

8. Can I download the results?

Yes. The calculator includes CSV and PDF download options. These exports contain the rule, summary details, and numeric result tables for later use or sharing.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.