Graphing Tutorial
How to Graph and Inspect Multiple Functions on Windows
Comparing functions on one set of axes can reveal intersections, phase differences, envelopes, and changing behavior that are easy to miss when each curve is viewed separately. This tutorial uses the current SumWise 2.4 graph interface to plot two functions, choose a useful range, control curve visibility, inspect coordinates, and export the result.
Use the complete Windows graphing workspace
See graph controls, supported visual calculus workflows, local operation, and current scope in Graphing Calculator for Windows.
Plot Two Functions Together
Open SumWise and enter this verified graph command:
graph sin(x), cos(x) from -10 to 10
The expressions before from are separated by a comma,
so SumWise plots both functions in the same graph. The explicit
range shows several periods on either side of the origin and gives
you enough context to compare where the curves rise, fall, cross,
and repeat.
Each function receives a distinct color and a legend entry. Keep those entries visible while you learn the graph: the label-to-color mapping prevents one curve from being mistaken for the other.
Choose a Range That Serves the Question
A broad range is useful for seeing repeated behavior, but a narrower range is better for inspecting a particular crossing or turn. You can enter another graph command with a different range, or use the visible zoom and pan controls after the graph opens.
Use reset when you want to return to the graph's prepared view. If you are teaching or checking a written problem, an explicit range also makes the setup reproducible for another person.
Distinguish and Toggle Curves
The graph legend provides visibility controls for each function. Hide one curve when you want to focus on the other, then show it again to restore the comparison. Hiding a curve removes it from curve inspection as well as the visible plot, which keeps the inspection result aligned with what you can actually see.
This is particularly useful when two curves pass close together or one function temporarily obscures another. It also lets an instructor reveal a comparison gradually without rebuilding the graph.
Inspect and Pin a Coordinate
Move the pointer near a visible curve. SumWise identifies the nearby function and shows an approximate coordinate. Click the inspected point to pin it. The pinned coordinate remains visible while you move elsewhere on the graph, which makes it easier to discuss or compare a specific location.
A pinned coordinate can be copied in a compact text form for notes, an assignment draft, or another calculation. Inspection is a visual exploration tool; use the appropriate calculation function when an exact symbolic or numerical result is required.
Continue into Visual Calculus
Once you are comfortable with multiple curves, try a supported graph helper. For example:
graph_tangent(x^2, 3) from -2 to 6
This verified workflow shows the curve, tangent point, slope, and tangent line together. Other supported helpers can shade a definite integral area or mark roots and extrema. Follow How to Find Critical Points on Windows for a focused polynomial example.
Copy or Export the Finished Graph
When the viewport and visible curves show what you need, copy the graph as an image or save it as a high-resolution PNG. The saved graph reflects the current viewport, visible curves, supported overlays, and a persistent pinned point when present. Temporary hover state and surrounding application controls are left out.
Current Scope
SumWise focuses on real-valued 2D functions, paired data plots, linear regression, and supported visual calculus overlays. It does not provide 3D graphing and is not an exam-certified calculator. Calculations and graph preparation are designed to run locally once the application is installed.
Continue Learning
Try graphing in SumWise
Explore the full Graphing Calculator for Windows guide, then use every SumWise feature during the full 7-day trial. Continue afterward for a one-time $24.99 purchase with no subscription.