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

5421 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are radians, why can't we just use degrees?


Find the value of: d/dx(x^2*sin(x))


Using answer to previous question state the coordinates of the minimum


Using transformation rules and your knowledge of trigonometric functions, draw the graph y=2sin(2x)


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