In many practical applications we need to find maxima or minima of functions. Not all of these can be done reasonably with the usual algebra and calculus tools. In those cases, it is very useful to be able to graph the function using computer software or a graphing calculator and approximate the maximum or minimum from the graph.

Throughout the 1990's a growing number of algebra and calculus courses included some work with graphing technology, including having students graph functions and find extrema. If you did not have such material in your courses, it's not too late to learn it now.

First, what software will you use? Many options are available (listed from most expensive to least expensive):

1. Full computer-algebra systems, such as Mathematica or Maple.
2. Graphing calculators
3. Inexpensive software
4. Free graphing software

I expect to fill out this website significantly in the next few months and discuss all of these categories with advice and instructions.

Until then, please go to http://www2.austin.cc.tx.us/mparker/graphsoft.html for discussion. Personally, I use Winplot (free) and Mathematica (available in the labs in the math dept at UT and at ACC.)

Last updated February 7, 2001. Mary Parker