Linear functions are commonly graphed using the slope intercept form of the equation; y = mx + b.
The y-intercept in this example is 1, and the slope is -3.

Using transformations, the y-intercept represents a vertical shift of 1 unit up. The negative slope represents a reflection about the y-axis and a vertical stretch of 3 to 1.

Anchor points (-1,-1) (0,0) (1,1) become (-1,4) (0,1) (1,-2).

Click on "original function" above to compare this graph to the basic absolute value graph.

Unsure of graphing functions? Read about graphing using transformations.