When determining the characteristics of an exponential function, you may want to graph the equation to verify your answers. Example 4 reviews the graphing steps learned in Unit 5 and introduces some new points to be aware of when you graph an exponential function.

Graph the function y = 2(4)x.

Step 1: Turn off the STAT PLOT; press 2nd, Y=, ENTER, right arrow, ENTER.

Step 2: Clear the functions; press Y= then, CLEAR for each function that needs deleting.

Step 3: Select values for the viewing window; press WINDOW. Use the keypad to type the values. Use up and down arrow keys to scroll through the list.

Step 4: Input the given equation; press Y=. Use the keypad to type the equation.

Step 5: Graph the function; press GRAPH.