Download Creating a Table of Values with the Graphing Calculator

Creating a Table of Values with the Graphing Calculator
Dr. Gisela Acosta
Given the equation y = 3x – 72, we know that y is the dependent variable (its value
depends on the value of x) and x is the independent variable. To create a table of values
that satisfy this equation, we can just pick a value for x, substitute it into the equation,
and solve for y.
Example:
If x = -2,
y = 3(-2) - 72
y = -6 - 72
y = -78
If x = -1,
y = 3(-1) - 72
y = -3 - 72
y = -75
and so on.
A sample table for this equation is:
x
-2
-1
0
1
2
y
-78
-75
-72
-69
-66
Some tables do not require the use of a calculator, since we work with small numbers.
Nevertheless, knowing how to work with the graphing calculator will make it easier to
make tables for more complicated equations. How can we create a table of values with
the graphing calculator?
Let us generate the previous table with the graphing calculator. We will make a table of
ordered pairs that satisfy the equation y = 3x – 72, for integer values of x beginning at -2.
1. We first press the ! key, and enter the equation Y1 = 3x – 72. You can find the !
key on the upper-left hand corner of the calculator. (Press C to erase any
equations that were previously used). Your screen will look like this:
(continued)
2. Press ` ç
(This is the second function associated with the @ key)
You will see a similar screen:
3. Under TblStart enter the beginning value: (-)2
(Note: Use the negative sign _ at the bottom of your calculator, not the minus sign
-)
4. The symbol Tbl = 1 means adding 1 to the preceding x value
5. Indpnt:
Depend:
Auto
Auto
Ask
Ask
(these are the x values)
(these are the y values)
 choose Auto
 choose Auto
This is the corresponding screen:
6. Press ` ê
(This is the second function associated with the % key) to see your new table;
notice these are the same values we found before :-)
You can use the arrows to scroll up and down the table.
Practice: Make a table of ordered pairs that satisfy the equation y = 4x – 60,
for integer values of x beginning at -5.
Note: You can choose to supply the x-values yourself by setting “Indpnt” to “Ask”. Then,
you can press ` ê. The calculator will display “x = ” and you can type your values and
press e after each one.