Answer:
The vertex form of this equation is y = (x + 4)^2 - 17
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to find the vertex form of the equation, we have to do a process called completing the square. The step by step instructions are below for you.
y = x^2 + 8x - 1
Add/Subtract the constant to the y side of the equation.
y + 1 = x^2 + 8x
Take half of the 8 coefficient (4) and then square it (16). Add that number to both sides.
y + 17 = x^2 + 8x + 16
Now you can factor the right side as a perfect square.
y + 17 = (x + 4)^2
Lastly we add/subtract the constant back to the right side.
y = (x + 4)^2 - 17
