Evaluating functions, step by step

f(4) is a name for a value, not f times 4.

The question

Find f(−6).

f(x) = −3x + 10; f(−6)

f(x) = −3x + 10atx = −6
−3 × (−6)=18
18+10=28
f(−6)=28
  1. f(−6) is a name for the value of the rule when x = −6. Put −6 where the x is — it is not f times −6.
  2. Multiply first, sign and all: −3 × (−6) = 18.
  3. Then add 10: 18 + 10 = 28.
  4. So f(−6) = 28.

How it works.

  1. 01

    f(−6) is a name for the value of the rule when x = −6. Put −6 where the x is — it is not f times −6.

  2. 02

    Multiply first, sign and all: −3 × (−6) = 18.

  3. 03

    Then add 10: 18 + 10 = 28.

  4. 04

    So f(−6) = 28.