Spotting Patterns

Math is full of patterns! Functions help you describe these patterns, showing how one value depends on another. You’ll see functions as rules or machines: put in one number, get out another.

Using Function Notation

If \( f(x) = 2x + 1 \), then plugging in \( x = 3 \) gives \( f(3) = 7 \). Functions let you make predictions and model relationships.

Real-World Connections

Functions describe things like the cost of a taxi ride (base fare plus mileage), or how your savings grow over time.

Identifying Patterns

• Look for repeating sequences
• Use tables to organize values