Why step-by-step differentiation matters
Getting the final answer is only half of calculus. Teachers grade the process: which rule you used and whether you simplified correctly. This step by step derivative calculator always expands the working under the result so you can match your paper solution line by line.
Many “online solvers” show a final expression and lock detailed steps behind Pro. Here, free steps are the default — every differentiation records the rule applied at each stage, so you can learn the method instead of guessing from the answer alone.
How step-by-step differentiation works on this page
- Enter a function (for example
x^2*sin(x)or(x+1)/(x-1)). - Choose the variable and derivative order (1st–5th).
- Press Calculate — the simplified derivative appears with an expanded step list.
- Read each labeled rule: power, product, quotient, chain, sum, or constant.
Use it as a differentiation-with-steps coach: attempt the problem yourself first, then compare rule names and intermediate expressions.
Rules you will see labeled
Constant, variable, sum, and difference
Constant and identity rules, plus term-by-term differentiation for sums and differences.
Product and quotient rules
Both parts of the product or quotient are shown so you can check each derivative.
Power and chain rules
Power rule for polynomials and negative/fractional exponents; chain rule for compositions including trig, exp, and ln.
Examples that benefit from full steps
These expressions often confuse students when only the final answer is shown. Run them in this derivative solver with steps:
Product and quotient problems
x^2*sin(x)— product + chain on sin(x^2+1)/(x-1)— quotient with polynomial pieces
Chain-rule compositions
e^(3*x)— chain on the exponentialln(x^2+1)— chain on the log argumentsqrt(x^2+1)or(x^2+1)^(1/2)— fractional power + chaintan(x)^2— composition that needs careful chain application
Free steps vs paid homework apps
No paywall on the working
Symbolab, Mathway, and similar apps frequently limit step-by-step differentiation to subscribers. This page keeps the working visible — no account, no trial countdown. If you only need the main tool entry point, the homepage derivative calculator uses the same engine; this URL targets people searching specifically for “with steps.”
Study tip for exams
Write your own steps first, then compare rule names. Matching “product rule” or “chain rule” labels to your notebook is the fastest way to turn a solver session into real exam prep. Need multivariable work? Open the partial derivative calculator — steps remain free there as well.
Derivative calculator with steps FAQ
Are the steps generated automatically?
Yes — as the engine differentiates, it records the rule applied at each stage so you can follow along with a true step by step derivative calculator experience.
Is there a limit on free steps?
No. Steps are included for every calculation on this site. There is no Pro tier for viewing the working.
Can I see steps for second derivatives?
Yes. Set Order to 2 or higher. Each successive derivative is listed so you can follow higher-order differentiation with steps.
Do steps include the chain rule?
Yes. Compositions such as e^(3x), ln(x²+1), and sin(x²) show the outer and inner derivatives explicitly in the step list.