"Basic Vector Addition and Subtraction for Dummies"

First note where points B and C are on the graph.
The ordered pair associated with these points are: B(3,2) and C(1,3).
There is a ray drawn from the origin to point B and point C.
We can refer to this ray as a "Vector". A vector that begins at the origin, then goes to point B is simply referred to as "B".
We don't consider it a ray anymore, because it stops at point B.
Vectors have direction and magnitude.
When we refer to these "basic" vectors, we consider them beginning at the origin for simplicity sake, although this is not always true. This simply helps in computing its length.
When we add or subtract vectors, it is a whole 'nother ballgame.
Click on the boxes to see the Vector for "Vector B + Vector C", and "Vector C - Vector B".
"Vector z" looks like it is in the wrong place, but look closer. If you join B and C, you will find that it Vector z is parallel to Vector BC. If you "moved" vector z to the right 3 places, then up 2 places, it would be on top of BC.
I know that this sounds crazy, but stick with Pelikan, Minda and Phelps for one summer and you will have all of this stuff "mastered"!
At least you will understand it lot more than before the course.

Christy Bredestege, Created with GeoGebra