Algebra Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Preparation

To find the vertex of the parabola defined by the equation \( y = x^2 - 6x + 8 \), we can use the method of completing the square or applying the vertex formula. The vertex form of a parabola is given by \( y = a(x-h)^2 + k \), where the vertex is the point \( (h, k) \).

First, we identify the coefficients in the equation \( y = ax^2 + bx + c \):

- \( a = 1 \) (the coefficient of \( x^2 \))

- \( b = -6 \)

- \( c = 8 \)

The x-coordinate of the vertex can be found using the formula \( h = -\frac{b}{2a} \):

\[

h = -\frac{-6}{2 \cdot 1} = \frac{6}{2} = 3

\]

Next, we substitute \( h \) back into the original equation to find the y-coordinate \( k \):

\[

k = (3)^2 - 6(3) + 8 = 9 - 18 + 8 = -1

\]

Thus, the vertex of the