Identify the parent function: (y=sqrt{x})
Find the domain by setting the expression under the square root greater than or equal to 0
Find the starting point by setting the radicand equal to 0
Plot the starting point
Choose several x-values that make the radicand perfect squares
Calculate the corresponding y-values
Plot the points
Connect the points with a smooth curve
Apply horizontal shifts by changing (x) inside the square root
Apply vertical shifts by adding or subtracting outside the square root
Reflect across the x-axis by multiplying the square root by a negative number
Stretch or compress the graph by changing the coefficient outside the square root
Check the range based on the transformation and direction of the graph