What are the steps for finding asymptotes and concavity in calculus graph?

[skyhawk714]

Homework Statement

find the (a) vertical and horizontal asymptotes (b) intervals of increase and decrease (c) find the local maximum and minimum values (d) the intervals of concavity and inflection points

then sketch a graph

Homework Equations

i have a test later on this, i missed the class where we went over this earlier this week because i had food poisoning and honestly have no idea how to even start...if someone could just give me the steps to do a problem like this it would be great, i don't even need a number answer but if it helps, the problem the teacher has given on a practice test is

f(x)= e**(x)
--------
1+e**(x)
(note **(x) is raised to the x power)

The Attempt at a Solution

i haven't really attempted, because like i said, i have no notes or any idea how to start a problem like this so any help, even just steps so i could try a problem like this on my own would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Hootenanny]

Well, let's start with part (a): what is an asymptote, how many different types are there and how do we find them?

 

[skyhawk714]

where the graph breaks the axis? there's vertical and horizontal...and idk how to find them

 

[Hootenanny]

where the graph breaks the axis?

No, note quite. That is a root.

Do you have any class notes or textbooks? If not, have a quick look at these pages: http://www.purplemath.com/modules/asymtote.htm