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5 Dec 2025

2 pages

Understanding Functions and Graphs for A-Level

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maria

@maria_reji

Functions are mathematical relationships that pop up everywhere in maths,... Show more

MODULUS has to be positive -7 e.g. 1-21 =2
**
y=x
Solve the equation 13.x
y=1x1
-
512-
2-½-x.
A
CO Œ Œ
not a function
many-to-one
function
y

Modulus and Functions Basics

The modulus (or absolute value) always gives you a positive result - think of it as the distance from zero. So |−2| = 2 and |5| = 5. When you see y = |x|, you're looking at a V-shaped graph that never dips below the x-axis.

To solve modulus equations like |3x − 5| = 2 − ½x, you need to consider two cases. First, when the expression inside is positive: 3x − 5 = 2 − ½x, giving x = 2. Second, when it's negative: −(3x − 5) = 2 − ½x, giving x = 6/5.

Functions can be one-to-one eachxvaluemapstoexactlyoneyvalue,andviceversaeach x-value maps to exactly one y-value, and vice versa or many-to-one multiplexvaluescangivethesameyvaluemultiple x-values can give the same y-value. Only one-to-one functions have inverse functions that work properly.

Quick Check: Use the horizontal line test - if any horizontal line crosses the graph more than once, it's many-to-one!

MODULUS has to be positive -7 e.g. 1-21 =2
**
y=x
Solve the equation 13.x
y=1x1
-
512-
2-½-x.
A
CO Œ Œ
not a function
many-to-one
function
y

Inverse Functions and Transformations

Inverse functions essentially "undo" what the original function does. The range of f(x) becomes the domain of f⁻¹(x), and vice versa. To find an inverse, swap x and y, then solve for y.

For example, if f(x) = x² − 3 (where x ≥ 0), let y = x² − 3, rearrange to get x = √y+3y + 3, so f⁻¹(x) = √x+3x + 3. The graphs of f(x) and f⁻¹(x) are reflections of each other across the line y = x.

Function transformations follow predictable patterns: fx+ax + a shifts left by a units, f(x) + a shifts up by a units, f(−x) reflects in the y-axis, and −f(x) reflects in the x-axis. Stretches work differently - f(ax) compresses horizontally by factor 1/a, whilst af(x) stretches vertically by factor a.

Memory Tip: When combining functions like fg(x), always work from right to left - apply g first, then f!



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Anna

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Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Maths

173

5 Dec 2025

2 pages

Understanding Functions and Graphs for A-Level

user profile picture

maria

@maria_reji

Functions are mathematical relationships that pop up everywhere in maths, from solving equations to graphing curves. Understanding modulus functions, inverse functions, and transformations will give you the tools to tackle complex problems with confidence.

MODULUS has to be positive -7 e.g. 1-21 =2
**
y=x
Solve the equation 13.x
y=1x1
-
512-
2-½-x.
A
CO Œ Œ
not a function
many-to-one
function
y

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Join milions of students

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Modulus and Functions Basics

The modulus (or absolute value) always gives you a positive result - think of it as the distance from zero. So |−2| = 2 and |5| = 5. When you see y = |x|, you're looking at a V-shaped graph that never dips below the x-axis.

To solve modulus equations like |3x − 5| = 2 − ½x, you need to consider two cases. First, when the expression inside is positive: 3x − 5 = 2 − ½x, giving x = 2. Second, when it's negative: −(3x − 5) = 2 − ½x, giving x = 6/5.

Functions can be one-to-one eachxvaluemapstoexactlyoneyvalue,andviceversaeach x-value maps to exactly one y-value, and vice versa or many-to-one multiplexvaluescangivethesameyvaluemultiple x-values can give the same y-value. Only one-to-one functions have inverse functions that work properly.

Quick Check: Use the horizontal line test - if any horizontal line crosses the graph more than once, it's many-to-one!

MODULUS has to be positive -7 e.g. 1-21 =2
**
y=x
Solve the equation 13.x
y=1x1
-
512-
2-½-x.
A
CO Œ Œ
not a function
many-to-one
function
y

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Inverse Functions and Transformations

Inverse functions essentially "undo" what the original function does. The range of f(x) becomes the domain of f⁻¹(x), and vice versa. To find an inverse, swap x and y, then solve for y.

For example, if f(x) = x² − 3 (where x ≥ 0), let y = x² − 3, rearrange to get x = √y+3y + 3, so f⁻¹(x) = √x+3x + 3. The graphs of f(x) and f⁻¹(x) are reflections of each other across the line y = x.

Function transformations follow predictable patterns: fx+ax + a shifts left by a units, f(x) + a shifts up by a units, f(−x) reflects in the y-axis, and −f(x) reflects in the x-axis. Stretches work differently - f(ax) compresses horizontally by factor 1/a, whilst af(x) stretches vertically by factor a.

Memory Tip: When combining functions like fg(x), always work from right to left - apply g first, then f!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Most popular content in Maths

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user