Identify a Transformation

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How to Identify a Transformation

A transformation describes how a figure moves from one position to another in geometry. The main goal is to compare the original figure and the image carefully and decide what kind of change happened.

1. Look for the motion

Check whether the figure was:

Moved without turning: a translation
Turned around a point: a rotation
Flipped over a line: a reflection
Resized larger or smaller: a dilation

2. Compare key points

Choose matching points on both figures and compare:

Direction of movement
Orientation of the figure
Size and shape
Whether the figure is upside down or reversed

If all points slide the same way, it is usually a translation. If the figure changes direction around a center, it is a rotation. If it appears mirrored, it is a reflection. If the size changes but the shape stays similar, it is a dilation.

3. Check your answer

Make sure your choice matches all visible features of the image, not just one point. If the figure is moved, turned, and flipped in more than one step, identify the single transformation or the most direct one requested.

Final check

Your answer should name the transformation clearly and, if needed, include the line, center, angle, or scale factor that describes it.