How do I graph this absolute value equation on a graph.
y=|x+1|-1

Question

How do I graph this absolute value equation on a graph.
y=|x+1|-1

tkhunny · Answer

It helps if you get this idea in your mind...

If x > 0, then |x| = x
If x < 0, then |x| = -x

Do you believe?

anonymous · Answer

So, it would be a normal v shape, but since it is a +1 on the inside, it is also shifted one unit left. Next, the -1 at the end is vertical shift, and that means 1 unit down. Take a look at the graph: http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=y%3D%7Cx%2B1%7C-1

anonymous · Answer

Okay thanks that really helped.

anonymous · Answer

Essentially an equation like this is in the form:

y=|x-h|+k.

So h is the left/right shift, and k is the up/down shift.

If h is negative, the equation  is shifted left, if h is positive, it is shifted right. 

Likewise, if K is negative, it is shifted down, and if positive, shifted up.

anonymous · Answer

No problem.