How to find the derivative of arctan(x)

Let y = arctan(x). Then x = tan(y).

Differentiate using the chain rule and rearrange: d(x)/dx = d(tany)/dx So 1 = sec^2(y) * dy/dx dy/dx = 1/sec^2(y)

But from identity sin^2(y) + cos^2(y) = 1 We can derive, by diving across by cos^2(y) tan^2(y) + 1 = sec^2(y)

So by combining: dy/dx = 1/sec^2(y) sec^2(y) = tan^2(y) + 1 y = arctan(x)

Get the result: dy/dx = 1/(x^2 + 1)

Maybe attempt to do this for a general inverse function: y = f^-1(x) y' = (f'(f^-1(x)))^-1 With geometric explanation from graph.

MR
Answered by Matthew R. Maths tutor

14080 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The curve C has equation x^2 – 3xy – 4y^2 + 64 = 0; find dy/dx in terms of x and y, and thus find the coordinates of the points on C where dy/dx = 0


Given y = x(3x+ 5)^3. Find dy/dx.


Find the value of cot(π/3)


The function f(x) is defined by f(x) = 1 + 2 sin (3x), − π/ 6 ≤ x ≤ π/ 6 . You are given that this function has an inverse, f^ −1 (x). Find f^ −1 (x) and its domain


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