Function notation, step by step

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

The question

Find f(−4).

f(x) = 2x + 11; f(−4)

f(x) = 2x + 11atx = −4
2 × (−4)=−8
−8+11=3
f(−4)=3
  1. f(−4) is a name for the value of the rule when x = −4. Put −4 where the x is — it is not f times −4.
  2. Multiply first, sign and all: 2 × (−4) = −8.
  3. Then add 11: −8 + 11 = 3.
  4. So f(−4) = 3.

How it works.

  1. 01

    f(−4) is a name for the value of the rule when x = −4. Put −4 where the x is — it is not f times −4.

  2. 02

    Multiply first, sign and all: 2 × (−4) = −8.

  3. 03

    Then add 11: −8 + 11 = 3.

  4. 04

    So f(−4) = 3.