Vertex form is an equation of the form y=a(x-h)2+k, where (h,k) are the coordinates of the vertex and (x,y) are coordinates of a point on the parabola. To set up a vertex form problem, you need the vertex and a point on the parabola. The vertex is identified by the h and k values, while the point uses the x and y coordinates. To solve, substitute the point coordinates into the vertex form equation and solve for the coefficient a.