A parabola is a conic section, with a focus and a directrix. The representation of a parabola on a graph is called a parabolic graph. Parabola graphs are commonly used in mathematics and physics and they are also extremely useful in a number of other fields. They are also used extensively in engineering and design to calculate values and so on.

The parabola crosses the x axis and the y axis. They are applied in a number of areas from the reflection of headlights to the design of ballistic missiles. Hence, the importance of graphing parabolas is immense and it must be done correctly following the mathematical equations given.

Parabola graphs are technical in nature and hence, they can only be drawn following an understanding of the mathematical concepts of the graph and the parabola. Thus, their uses are technical as well.

The occurrence of parabolas in daily life is immense, and thus, the need for representing numerical data visually also increases. However, for laymen, the understanding of parabola graphs is dependent on their understanding of parabolas as a mathematical concept.

The quadratic equation that forms the parabola must first be solved and then the respective points plotted. This has to be done with accuracy in order to create a correct graphical rendition.