How to use the derivative calculator
A derivative describes the instantaneous rate of change of a function. Enter the function and the variable you are differentiating with respect to; include a point if you need the slope there.
A useful method
- Identify the outer operation and choose a differentiation rule.
- Differentiate each term, applying product or chain rules where needed.
- Simplify the derivative and evaluate at a point only if requested.
Worked example
Find d/dx of 3x² − 4x + 7
- The derivative of 3x² is 6x by the power rule.
- The derivative of −4x is −4.
- The derivative of the constant 7 is 0.
Answer: 6x − 4.
Check your work
When differentiating a composite expression such as (x² + 1)³, the chain rule also requires the derivative of the inside expression.
Enter your own problem in the solver above and ask about any step you want explained.