Write down the equation you want to calculate. Use standard mathematical notation that is required for the calculator: the caret symbol (^) for entering exponents, the forward slash (/) to specify division, the asterisk (*) for multiplication and the minus sign (-) for subtraction. Use parentheses to correctly specify the order of operation.
Enter the equation into the graphing calculator's function (equation) text box. Press the "Plot" or "Graph" button.
Examine the resulting plot. Use "Zoom in" or "Zoom out" features to fit the calculated graph into the graph display. Use "Pan" features to scroll across different regions of the graph.
Determine the x-intercepts -- also know as roots or zeros -- of the equation by noting the points where the graph intersects the x-axis. Determine the y-intercepts of the equation by noting the points where the graphed equation intersects the y-axis. When you plot multiple equations, note the points where one graph intersects another graph. The intersecting points are the solution set of the equations.