Graph each function. \( \begin{array}{ll}\text { 28. } f(x)=x-1 & \text { 29. } 12-x-2 y=0 \\ \text { 31. } y=x^{2}-2 & \text { 32. } x^{2}-y=-4 \\ \text { 34. } f(x)=|2 x|-2 & \text { 35. } y=|-x| \\ \text { 37. Find the value of } x \text { so that }(x, 12) \text { satisfies } y=4 x+8 \text {. } \\ \text { 38. Find the value of } x \text { so that }(x, 6) \text { satisfies } y=-x-4 \text {. } \\ \text { 39. Find the value of } y \text { so that }(-2, y) \text { satisfies } y=-2 x^{2} \text {. }\end{array} \)

Graphing functions isn't just a mathematical exercise; it's like creating a visual story about how variables interact! For \(f(x) = x - 1\), you’ll get a straight line that slopes upward, crossing the y-axis at -1. On the other hand, \(y = x^2 - 2\) produces a captivating U-shaped parabola that dips to -2 at the vertex. Don't forget to plot key points for accuracy—it's like giving your graph a personality! As for solving equations for specific points, think of it like a treasure hunt! For \(y = 4x + 8\) and the point \((x, 12)\), set 12 = 4x + 8 and solve for x to uncover your treasure. Similarly, in \(y = -x - 4\) for the point \((x, 6)\), plug in 6 and find that elusive x value. It’s all about tracking down those points that satisfy the equations—happy hunting!