FUNCTIONS

A function is a relation in which each possible input value leads to exactly one output value. We
say “the output is a function of the input.”
The input values make up the domain, and the output values make up the range.
Function Notation
The notation y = f (x) defines a function named f. This is read as “y is a function of x.” The letter
x represents the input value, or independent variable. The letter y, or f (x), represents the output
value, or dependent variable.

Representing Functions Using Tables

A common method of representing functions is in the form of a table. The table rows or columns
display the corresponding input and output values. In some cases, these values represent all we
know about the relationship; other times, the table provides a few select examples from a more
complete relationship.

One-to-One Function
A one-to-one function is a function in which each output value corresponds to exactly one input
value. There are no repeated x- or y-values.
SUMMARY OF INTERVAL NOTATION

Set-Builder Notation and Interval Notation

Set-builder notation is a method of specifying a set of elements that satisfy a certain condition.
It takes the form {x | statement about x} which is read as, “the set of all x such that the statement
about x is true.” For example, {x | 4 < x ≤ 12}
Interval notation is a way of describing sets that include all real numbers between a lower limit
that may or may not be included and an upper limit that may or may not be included. The
endpoint values are listed between brackets or parentheses. A square bracket indicates inclusion
in the set, and a parenthesis indicates exclusion from the set. For example, (4, 12)

DOMAIN AND RANGE

Piecewise Function
A piecewise function is a function in which more than one formula is used to define the output.
Each formula has its own domain, and the domain of the function is the union of all these smaller
domains. We notate this idea like this:

formula1if x is∈domain1
{
f (x) = formula 2if x is∈domain2
formula 3if x is∈domain3

In piecewise notation, the absolute value function is |x| = {−xx ififxx≥<00