Ellipses & Hyperbolas Tutor Help
A one-page recap of the c² relationships and asymptotes, plus a way to ask a tutor for a worked explanation.
1 Quick recap
The essentials on one page before you ask for help.
The two relationships
Ellipse: c² = a² − b² (minus) · Hyperbola: c² = a² + b² (plus)
Asymptotes: y − k = ±(b/a)(x − h)
Asymptotes: y − k = ±(b/a)(x − h)
The positive term’s denominator is a² and sets the transverse axis. Foci sit c units from the center along it.
Stuck? Check these first
- Hyperbolas use plus: c² = a² + b². Ellipses use minus.
- The positive term tells you a² — not the first term, not the bigger denominator.
- Asymptote slope is b/a for horizontal transverse axis, a/b for vertical.
- Foci are on the transverse axis, c from the center — never on the conjugate axis.
2 Ask a tutor
Tell us what you are stuck on. A tutor will follow up with a worked explanation.
3 Keep going
While you wait, review the lesson or drill practice problems.