Graph Transformation Question

Question

I get that because x^2 will be negative the answer will be one of the following a, b, or e. But I don't understand why the answer is a??

Answer 1

The "$+a$" in $-(x + a)^2$ indicates a horizontal shift. Since $a > 0$ (i.e., $a$ is a positive number), this shift must be to the left. Only choice (a) has both the properties of vertical reflection and leftward shift.

Answer 2

$y = -(x + a)^2 = -(x - [-a])^2$

The first minus means that the graph concaves downward. This rules out (c) and (d).

Inserting the middle minus is a way to find the root, which is $[-a]$.

Since $a > 0, -a$ is some negative quantity. This leave (a) as the only choice.