Differentiation Rules

Start with the idea of differentiation

Begin with the Differentiation mind map. It introduces differentiation as a way to find the gradient of a curve at a point and connects that gradient with the tangent to the curve. Use it to establish what the rules are helping you find before turning to the formulas.

Next, open the Basic Derivative Rules flashcards. They cover constant, power, sum and difference rules as well as product and quotient rules. Work through the cards and try to recall each rule before checking it.

Choose and practice rules

Once you have met the basic rules, use Differentiation formulae to practice with the chain and product rules and derivatives of exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. The mind map on the chain, product and quotient rules gives examples of when those rules apply, including a function raised to a power and functions multiplied together.

The Derivatives mind map brings several rules together, including the power, product, quotient and chain rules. Compare its branches with the flashcards: use the map to choose a rule, then use the cards to check whether you can recall it.

Use the formats together

This topic page does not list quizzes, but the flashcards offer a way to check your recall. If a card is difficult, return to a mind map and find the corresponding rule. Notes and slides provide other formats to explore, including slides on the product and quotient rules.

Place the topic in the unit

Differentiation Rules is one section of the Differentiation and Derivatives unit in Mathematics. The resources on this page connect the idea of a gradient with rules for finding derivatives. Open a mind map and work through a flashcard deck alongside it.