Parametric Graphing Calculator
Plot x(t) and y(t) together and see the path traced out from the parameter. Circles, cycloids and Lissajous figures, free.
Expressions
Keypad
Table of Values
| x | y |
|---|
Capabilities
What this tool does
Dual Expression Input
Enter x(t) and y(t) side by side and the curve is plotted from the parameter, not from y as a function of x.
Curves That Fail the Vertical Line Test
Circles, loops and self-intersecting paths have no single y for a given x — the parametric form draws them correctly.
Layer Several Curves
Add more parametric pairs to one grid and compare a circle against a cycloid or a spiral directly.
Table of Values
Generate the table for the current pair when you need the coordinates at specific values of t.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a parametric equation?
A pair of equations x(t) and y(t) where t is a parameter. Plotting the point for each value of t draws a curve — useful when y is not a single-valued function of x.
How do I find the rectangular form?
Solve one of the two equations for t and substitute it into the other. Once you have y = f(x), enter it in the Function tab to check your algebra against the original curve.
Why can't I express this as y = f(x)?
Some parametric curves fail the vertical line test, so no single y exists for a given x. The parametric form is the only way to draw them.
Is this free?
Yes — no account, no download.
Try the full graphing calculator
Every tool here shares one engine. Open the main calculator for the complete keypad, polar and parametric graphing, and the table of values.