How do I know which method of diffirentiation to use?

The main methods of differentiation you need to know at A level are the chain rule, the product rule and the quotient rule.

The chain rule should be used when the eqation is a function of a function. E.g. y=x​(sinx)

The product rule should be used when the eqation is a product of 2 things E.g. y=x4ln(x)

The quotient rule should be used when the equation is a fraction. E.g. y=(2x+1)(4x2​-1)

LC
Answered by Lizzie C. Maths tutor

5148 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

dx/dt=-5x/2 t>=0 when x=60 t=0


A circle A has equation x^2+y^2-6x-14y+54=0. Find a) the coordinates of the centre of A, b) the radius of the circle A.


How do I prove (x-2) is a factor of the function f(x) = x^2-4x+4?


An 1kg ball collides normally with a fixed vertical wall. Its incoming speed is 8 m/s and its speed after the collision is 4 m/s . Calculate the change in momentum of the particle. If the collision lasts 0.5 s calculate the impact force.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning