How can I remember how to differentiate and integrate cos and sin?

I find it is best whenever you open your maths paper to draw this diagram to help you remember: Sin(X) -> cos(X)-> -sin(X) -> -cos(X)----->
{Drawn in a circle on the board}
To differentiate you follow the circle clockwise from sine you get cosine but when you differentiate cosine there is a sign change and we get minus sine.
Also it is important to remember that if there is a coefficient, like:
Y= Cos(2x)
We have to times by this when we differentiate and divide by it when we integrate:
dY/DX= 2cos(2x) Integral(Y) = 1/2 cos(2x).
{Symbols drawn on board}
Shall we try some examples?

HM
Answered by Hannah M. Maths tutor

6537 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the stationary points of y = 4(x^2 - 4)^3


A cubic polynomial has the form p(z)=z^3+bz^2+cz+d, z is Complex and b, c, d are Real. Given that a solution of p(z)=0 is z1=3-2i and that p(-2)=0, find the values of b, c and d.


Integrate 1/(1 - 3*x) with respect to x


Find the solution(s) of 3(x^2)-6x+2=0


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