To graph the equation $y = x^2 + 2$, follow these steps:

1. Identify the basic shape: The equation $y = x^2 + 2$ represents a parabola. Since the coefficient of $x^2$ is positive, the parabola opens upwards.
2. Determine the vertex: The vertex of the parabola is at the point where the value of $x$ produces the minimum value for $y$. In this case, the vertex is at $(0, 2)$, because when $x = 0$, $y = 2$.
3. Plot points: Choose values of $x$ to compute corresponding values of $y$.
   • When $x = -2$, $y = (-2)^2 + 2 = 6$
   • When $x = -1$, $y = (-1)^2 + 2 = 3$
   • When $x = 0$, $y = 0^2 + 2 = 2$
   • When $x = 1$, $y = (1)^2 + 2 = 3$
   • When $x = 2$, $y = (2)^2 + 2 = 6$
4. **Sketch the graph