This week, we learned about function notation, mapping notation, and relations. I’m focusing on function notation because it’s important for understanding other math topics. Here are the steps to follow, with two simple examples:

Steps for Function Notation:

1. Know the function name:
   The name is usually a letter like f, g, or h.
2. Find the input value (x):
   The input is the number you will substitute into the function.
3. Plug in the input:
   Replace x with the given number in the equation.
4. Solve:
   Do the math to find the answer.

Example 1:

Let g(x)=4x−7
Find g(3):

Step 1: The function name is g.
Step 2: The input is x=3
Step 3: Replace x with 3:

g(3)=4(3)−7

Step 4: Solve:

g(3)=12−7=5

Answer: g(3)=5

Example 2:

Let h(x)=x2+2x−1
Find h(−2):

Step 1: The function name is h
Step 2: The input is x=−2
Step 3: Replace x with -2:

h(−2)=(−2)2+2(−2)−1

Step 4: Solve:

h(−2)=4−4−1=−1

Answer: h(−2)=−1