Derivative calculator with steps
Use this page as a worked derivative guide, then open the app if you want an AI-generated suggestion for your own expression.
What this topic means and what to look for first.
A derivative measures how a function changes.
For many first examples, the power rule is the main tool you need.
One reliable route through the topic.
- 1Rewrite the function clearly if needed.
- 2Apply the power rule term by term.
- 3Differentiate constants to 0.
- 4Simplify the final expression.
See the method in action.
Differentiate x^3 + 2x
- The derivative of x^3 is 3x^2.
- The derivative of 2x is 2.
- So the derivative is 3x^2 + 2.
Differentiate 4x^2 - 7
- The derivative of 4x^2 is 8x.
- The derivative of -7 is 0.
- So the derivative is 8x.
Things that commonly send the method off track.
- Forgetting that constants disappear after differentiation.
- Reducing the power but forgetting to multiply by the original power.
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Extra calculus revision resources
If you want more derivative and method practice after this page, these broader searches are a sensible place to continue.
Amazon
Calculus revision workbook search
Useful for more differentiation and worked-example practice in one printed workbook.
View Calculus revision workbook searchAmazon
Differentiation practice book search
Helpful if you want a narrower printed resource focused on derivative methods and routine practice.
View Differentiation practice book searchFound this useful?
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Short answers worth checking.
The derivative of any constant is 0.
No. For products, quotients, chains, or trig functions, other rules may be needed.
Continue with the next closely related topic.
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