AP Calculus AB & BC
Derivatives Exam Practice Worksheet
[2026]

Last Updated: March 23, 2026

Advanced ⌛ Est. 2–3 Hours 50 Problems

A complete AP exam-style derivatives worksheet covering all six major differentiation topics tested on the AP Calculus AB and BC exams. Problems are carefully calibrated to match the difficulty, format, and notation of actual College Board exams. Includes a complete answer key with step-by-step solutions.

Power Rule 8 problems
Chain Rule 10 problems
Product Rule 8 problems
Quotient Rule 8 problems
Implicit Differentiation 8 problems
Related Rates 8 problems

Introduction

Differentiation is the beating heart of AP Calculus. On both the AB and BC exams, the ability to compute derivatives accurately and efficiently — across a wide variety of function types and contexts — accounts for a substantial portion of the total score. This worksheet is designed to give you rigorous, exam-calibrated practice across all six of the differentiation skills that the College Board tests most heavily. Before you begin, it is worth reviewing our AP Calculus Derivatives Review to make sure your foundational knowledge is solid.

The six topics covered here are not independent. The Chain Rule appears inside Product Rule problems. Implicit differentiation relies on the Chain Rule. Related rates requires implicit differentiation. A complete command of AP derivatives means understanding not just each rule in isolation, but how they combine. The problems in this worksheet are arranged to build that layered fluency, with each section increasing in complexity and each subsequent topic drawing on the rules that came before.

The fifty problems in this worksheet closely mirror the style, phrasing, and difficulty distribution of actual AP Calculus exam questions. Multiple-choice style problems test speed and accuracy. Free-response style problems test your ability to show clear, organised work and arrive at exact answers. Work every problem by hand before consulting the answer key — active problem-solving is the fastest path to exam readiness. If you are short on time, our Last-Minute Calculus Review condenses the highest-yield material into a focused session.

AP Exam Objectives Covered

Key Formulas & Quick Reference

The Six Rules at a Glance

Rule Formula When to Use
Power Rule\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[x^n] = nx^{n-1}\)Any term of the form \(x^n\); includes \(n\) negative or fractional
Chain Rule\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[f(g(x))] = f'(g(x))\cdot g'(x)\)Any composite (nested) function
Product Rule\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[fg] = f'g + fg'\)Two functions multiplied together
Quotient Rule\(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\dfrac{f}{g}\right] = \dfrac{f'g - fg'}{g^2}\)One function divided by another
Implicit Diff.Differentiate both sides w.r.t. \(x\); apply Chain Rule to any \(y\)-term, giving \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) factorEquation in both \(x\) and \(y\) not solved for \(y\)
Related RatesRelate quantities in an equation, then differentiate w.r.t. \(t\)Two or more quantities changing with time

Essential Derivatives to Memorise

Function Derivative Function Derivative
\(\sin x\)\(\cos x\)\(\cos x\)\(-\sin x\)
\(\tan x\)\(\sec^2 x\)\(\sec x\)\(\sec x\tan x\)
\(\cot x\)\(-\csc^2 x\)\(\csc x\)\(-\csc x\cot x\)
\(e^x\)\(e^x\)\(a^x\)\(a^x\ln a\)
\(\ln x\)\(\dfrac{1}{x}\)\(\log_a x\)\(\dfrac{1}{x\ln a}\)
\(\arcsin x\)\(\dfrac{1}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}\)\(\arctan x\)\(\dfrac{1}{1+x^2}\)
AP Exam Tip: On the AP exam, you will not be given a formula sheet for derivative rules — you must have them memorised. Use the table above as a daily reference until every entry is automatic. For a print-ready version of all rules in one place, see our Derivative Cheat Sheet for Exams or the compact Derivatives Cram Sheet.

Section 1: Power Rule (Problems 1–8)

Intermediate – Advanced

These problems test the Power Rule across its full range: polynomial functions, negative exponents, fractional exponents, and combinations requiring the Sum and Constant Multiple Rules. On the AP exam, the Power Rule appears in almost every derivative problem as part of a larger computation.

Power Rule
\[\frac{d}{dx}[x^n] = nx^{n-1}, \quad \frac{d}{dx}[cf(x)] = cf'(x), \quad \frac{d}{dx}[f \pm g] = f' \pm g'\]
Worked Example — Power Rule with Negative Exponent

Find \(f'(x)\) if \(f(x) = 3x^{-4} + 7x^{1/3} - \sqrt{x}\).

Rewrite with exponent notation

\(f(x) = 3x^{-4} + 7x^{1/3} - x^{1/2}\)

Apply Power Rule term by term

\(f'(x) = 3(-4)x^{-5} + 7\!\left(\tfrac{1}{3}\right)x^{-2/3} - \tfrac{1}{2}x^{-1/2}\)

\(f'(x) = -12x^{-5} + \dfrac{7}{3}x^{-2/3} - \dfrac{1}{2\sqrt{x}}\)
  1. Find \(f'(x)\) if \(f(x) = 4x^5 - 7x^3 + 2x - 9\).
  2. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[6x^{-3} + \dfrac{5}{x^2} - 8x\right]\).
  3. Differentiate \(g(x) = x^{7/3} - 4x^{5/2} + x^{-1/4}\).
  4. Find \(y'\) if \(y = \dfrac{3}{x^4} - \dfrac{1}{2\sqrt[3]{x}} + 5\).
  5. Find the derivative of \(h(x) = (2x^3 - 1)(x + 4)\). (Expand first, then differentiate.)
  6. Find \(f'(x)\) if \(f(x) = \dfrac{x^4 - 3x^2 + x}{x}\).
  7. A particle's position is given by \(s(t) = t^4 - 8t^2 + 3t\) (metres, seconds). Find its velocity \(v(t)\) and acceleration \(a(t)\).
  8. Find the equation of the tangent line to \(y = x^3 - 4x + 1\) at \(x = 2\).

Section 2: Chain Rule (Problems 9–18)

Advanced

Chain Rule problems on the AP exam range from straightforward single-layer compositions to multi-layer problems requiring repeated application. All ten problems here are at or above the level of difficulty found in the AP free-response section. For additional practice, see the Chain Rule Worksheet (80 problems) and verify your work with the Chain Rule Calculator. If you are cramming for a test, the Derivatives Cram Sheet distils all key Chain Rule patterns onto a single reference page.

Chain Rule
\[\frac{d}{dx}[f(g(x))] = f'(g(x))\cdot g'(x)\] \[\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{dy}{du}\cdot\frac{du}{dx} \quad (u = g(x))\]
Worked Example — Multi-Layer Chain Rule

Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\sin^3(2x^2)\right]\).

Identify the layers

Outermost: \(u^3\). Middle: \(\sin(w)\). Innermost: \(w = 2x^2\).

Differentiate layer by layer (outside in)

\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[\sin^3(2x^2)] = 3\sin^2(2x^2)\cdot\cos(2x^2)\cdot 4x\)

\(= 12x\sin^2(2x^2)\cos(2x^2)\)
  1. Find \(f'(x)\) if \(f(x) = (3x^2 - 5x + 1)^6\).
  2. Differentiate \(y = e^{4x^3 - x}\).
  3. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\ln(x^2 + \sin x)\right]\).
  4. Find \(g'(x)\) if \(g(x) = \sqrt{5x^3 - 2x + 7}\).
  5. Differentiate \(h(x) = \cos^4(3x)\).
  6. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\arctan(e^{2x})\right]\).
  7. Find \(y'\) if \(y = \sin\!\left(\dfrac{1}{x^2+1}\right)\).
  8. Differentiate \(f(x) = e^{\sin(x^2)}\).
  9. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\ln(\cos^3 x)\right]\) and simplify.
  10. Differentiate \(y = \left(\dfrac{x^2+1}{x-3}\right)^5\). (Apply Chain Rule; do not expand.)

Section 3: Product Rule (Problems 19–26)

Advanced

Product Rule problems on the AP exam frequently require combining the Product Rule with the Chain Rule. Problems 23–26 in this section are deliberately multi-step, requiring you to identify which sub-functions themselves need the Chain Rule before assembling the full derivative via the Product Rule. A common source of lost marks here is carrying the wrong sign through — see our guide on Top Derivative Exam Mistakes for the full breakdown.

Product Rule
\[\frac{d}{dx}[f(x)\cdot g(x)] = f'(x)g(x) + f(x)g'(x)\]
Worked Example — Product + Chain Rule

Find \(y'\) if \(y = x^3 e^{2x}\).

Identify \(f\) and \(g\)

\(f = x^3,\ f' = 3x^2\); \quad g = e^{2x},\ g' = 2e^{2x}\) (Chain Rule)

Apply Product Rule

\(y' = 3x^2 \cdot e^{2x} + x^3 \cdot 2e^{2x} = e^{2x}(3x^2 + 2x^3)\)

\(y' = x^2 e^{2x}(3 + 2x)\)
  1. Find \(y'\) if \(y = x^4\sin x\).
  2. Differentiate \(f(x) = (3x - 1)\ln x\).
  3. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}[x^2 e^{-x}]\).
  4. Find \(g'(x)\) if \(g(x) = \sqrt{x}\cos(2x)\).
  5. Differentiate \(h(x) = (x^2 + 3)^4 \cdot e^{3x}\).
  6. Find \(y'\) if \(y = x\ln(x^2 + 1)\).
  7. Differentiate \(f(x) = \sin(3x)\cos(5x)\).
  8. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[e^{x^2}\arctan x\right]\).

Section 4: Quotient Rule (Problems 27–34)

Advanced

The Quotient Rule is one of the most error-prone rules under timed exam conditions. The most common mistake is reversing the sign in the numerator. As a consistency check: the numerator is always denominator × derivative of numerator, minus numerator × derivative of denominator. For a complete list of the errors that cost students the most points, visit our Derivative Exam Mistakes guide. Use the derivative calculator to verify any answers you are uncertain about.

Quotient Rule — "Low D-High Minus High D-Low, Over Low Squared"
\[\frac{d}{dx}\!\left[\frac{f(x)}{g(x)}\right] = \frac{f'(x)g(x) - f(x)g'(x)}{[g(x)]^2}\]
Worked Example — Quotient + Chain Rule

Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\dfrac{e^{2x}}{x^2+1}\right]\).

Identify numerator and denominator

\(f = e^{2x},\ f' = 2e^{2x}\); \quad \(g = x^2+1,\ g' = 2x\)

Apply Quotient Rule

\(= \dfrac{2e^{2x}(x^2+1) - e^{2x}(2x)}{(x^2+1)^2} = \dfrac{2e^{2x}(x^2-x+1)}{(x^2+1)^2}\)

\(\dfrac{2e^{2x}(x^2-x+1)}{(x^2+1)^2}\)
  1. Find \(f'(x)\) if \(f(x) = \dfrac{x^3}{x^2 + 1}\).
  2. Differentiate \(y = \dfrac{\sin x}{x}\).
  3. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\dfrac{x^2 - 4}{x + 2}\right]\) and simplify.
  4. Differentiate \(g(x) = \dfrac{e^x}{\ln x}\).
  5. Find \(y'\) if \(y = \dfrac{\cos(3x)}{x^2 + 5}\).
  6. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\dfrac{\arctan x}{x^3}\right]\).
  7. Differentiate \(f(x) = \dfrac{(2x+1)^3}{e^x}\).
  8. Find \(\dfrac{d}{dx}\!\left[\dfrac{\ln(x^2)}{x^2+x}\right]\).

Section 5: Implicit Differentiation (Problems 35–42)

AP Free-Response Level

Implicit differentiation problems are a staple of the AP Calculus free-response section. These eight problems cover the full range: basic implicit derivatives, finding dy/dx at a specific point, finding d²y/dx², and using implicit differentiation to find the equation of a tangent line. For a complete tutorial, see the Implicit Differentiation Guide. If you are using this worksheet as part of final exam preparation, pair it with our Calculus Final Exam Practice resource for a comprehensive review session.

Implicit Differentiation — Core Technique
\[\frac{d}{dx}[y^n] = ny^{n-1}\cdot\frac{dy}{dx} \qquad \frac{d}{dx}[x^m y^n] = mx^{m-1}y^n + x^m\cdot ny^{n-1}\frac{dy}{dx}\]

Differentiate both sides with respect to \(x\). Every \(y\)-term that is differentiated picks up a \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) factor (Chain Rule). Collect all \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) terms and solve.

Worked Example — Implicit Differentiation with Product

Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) given \(x^2y + y^3 = 5\).

Differentiate both sides with respect to \(x\)

\(2xy + x^2\dfrac{dy}{dx} + 3y^2\dfrac{dy}{dx} = 0\)

Collect \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) terms

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx}(x^2 + 3y^2) = -2xy\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{-2xy}{x^2 + 3y^2}\)
  1. Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) given \(x^2 + y^2 = 25\).
  2. Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) given \(x^3 + 3xy - y^3 = 7\).
  3. Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) given \(e^{xy} = x + y\).
  4. Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) given \(\sin(x + y) = x^2y\).
  5. Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\bigg|_{(1,\,2)}\) given \(x^2 + 2xy + y^2 = 9\). Then write the equation of the tangent line at \((1, 2)\).
  6. Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) given \(\ln(xy) + y^2 = 3x\).
  7. Given \(x^2 + y^2 = r^2\) (where \(r\) is a constant), find \(\dfrac{d^2y}{dx^2}\) in terms of \(x\), \(y\), and \(r\).
  8. Find \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) given \(x^2\sin y + y\cos x = 1\).

Section 6: Related Rates (Problems 43–50)

AP Free-Response Level

Related rates are among the most challenging AP free-response problems because they require you to model a situation geometrically or algebraically, then differentiate implicitly with respect to time. The key skill is setting up the correct equation before differentiating. For each problem below, clearly define all variables and explicitly state the equation you are differentiating. Our AP Calculus Derivatives Review includes additional worked examples of related rates from past AP exams.

Related Rates — Problem-Solving Framework

Step 1: Draw and label a diagram. Assign variables to all changing quantities.
Step 2: Write an equation relating the variables.
Step 3: Differentiate both sides with respect to \(t\), using the Chain Rule.
Step 4: Substitute the given values and solve for the unknown rate.

Worked Example — Expanding Circle

A circular oil spill is expanding. Its radius is increasing at \(3\) m/s. How fast is the area increasing when the radius is \(20\) m?

Equation relating area and radius

\(A = \pi r^2\)

Differentiate with respect to \(t\)

\(\dfrac{dA}{dt} = 2\pi r\dfrac{dr}{dt}\)

Substitute \(r = 20\), \(\dfrac{dr}{dt} = 3\)

\(\dfrac{dA}{dt} = 2\pi(20)(3) = 120\pi\) m²/s

\(\dfrac{dA}{dt} = 120\pi \approx 376.99\) m²/s
  1. A ladder 10 ft long leans against a vertical wall. The bottom slides away from the wall at 2 ft/s. How fast is the top of the ladder sliding down the wall when the bottom is 6 ft from the wall?
  2. The volume of a sphere is increasing at a rate of \(24\pi\) cm³/s. How fast is the radius increasing when the radius is 3 cm? \([V = \tfrac{4}{3}\pi r^3]\)
  3. A conical tank (vertex down) has height 12 m and base radius 4 m. Water drains at \(2\) m³/min. How fast is the water level falling when the water is 6 m deep? \([V = \tfrac{1}{3}\pi r^2 h\); use similar triangles to relate \(r\) and \(h]\).
  4. Two cars leave an intersection simultaneously. Car A drives east at 60 mph; Car B drives north at 80 mph. How fast is the distance between them increasing after 30 minutes?
  5. The base of a right triangle is increasing at 3 cm/s and the height is decreasing at 2 cm/s. When the base is 8 cm and the height is 6 cm, how fast is the hypotenuse changing?
  6. A point moves along the curve \(y = x^3\). When \(x = 2\), the \(x\)-coordinate is increasing at 4 units/s. How fast is the \(y\)-coordinate increasing?
  7. Sand poured onto a conical pile at \(12\) ft³/min maintains a height always equal to three times the base radius. At what rate is the height increasing when the height is 6 ft? \([V = \tfrac{1}{3}\pi r^2 h]\)
  8. A street lamp is mounted 15 ft above the ground. A person 6 ft tall walks away from the base of the lamp at 5 ft/s. At what rate is the length of the person's shadow increasing? At what rate is the tip of the shadow moving?

Quick Answer Key

Use these to check your final answers. Click the button below for full step-by-step solutions.

Section 1: Power Rule

1. \(f'(x) = 20x^4 - 21x^2 + 2\)
2. \(-18x^{-4} - 10x^{-3} - 8\)
3. \(\dfrac{7}{3}x^{4/3} - 10x^{3/2} - \dfrac{1}{4}x^{-5/4}\)
4. \(y' = -12x^{-5} + \dfrac{1}{6}x^{-4/3}\)
5. \(h'(x) = 8x^3 + 24x^2 - 2x - 4\)
6. \(f'(x) = 3x^2 - 3 + x^{-2}\)
7. \(v(t) = 4t^3 - 16t + 3;\ a(t) = 12t^2 - 16\)
8. \(y - 1 = 8(x - 2)\), i.e., \(y = 8x - 15\)

Section 2: Chain Rule

9. \(f'(x) = 6(6x - 5)(3x^2 - 5x + 1)^5\)
10. \(y' = (12x^2 - 1)e^{4x^3 - x}\)
11. \(\dfrac{2x + \cos x}{x^2 + \sin x}\)
12. \(g'(x) = \dfrac{15x^2 - 2}{2\sqrt{5x^3 - 2x + 7}}\)
13. \(-12\cos^3(3x)\sin(3x)\)
14. \(\dfrac{2e^{2x}}{1 + e^{4x}}\)
15. \(\dfrac{-2x\cos\!\left(\tfrac{1}{x^2+1}\right)}{(x^2+1)^2}\)
16. \(2x\cos(x^2)\,e^{\sin(x^2)}\)
17. \(-3\tan x\)
18. \(5\!\left(\dfrac{x^2+1}{x-3}\right)^4\!\cdot\dfrac{(x-3)(2x)-(x^2+1)}{(x-3)^2}\)

Section 3: Product Rule

19. \(4x^3\sin x + x^4\cos x\)
20. \(3\ln x + \dfrac{3x-1}{x}\)
21. \(e^{-x}(2x - x^2) = xe^{-x}(2-x)\)
22. \(\dfrac{\cos(2x)}{2\sqrt{x}} - 2\sqrt{x}\sin(2x)\)
23. \(8x(x^2+3)^3 e^{3x} + 3(x^2+3)^4 e^{3x}\)
24. \(\ln(x^2+1) + \dfrac{2x^2}{x^2+1}\)
25. \(3\cos(3x)\cos(5x) - 5\sin(3x)\sin(5x)\)
26. \(2xe^{x^2}\arctan x + \dfrac{e^{x^2}}{1+x^2}\)

Section 4: Quotient Rule

27. \(\dfrac{x^4 + 3x^2}{(x^2+1)^2}\)
28. \(\dfrac{x\cos x - \sin x}{x^2}\)
29. \(1\) (simplify: \(\dfrac{x-2}{1}\), so derivative \(= 1\))
30. \(\dfrac{e^x(\ln x - 1/x)}{(\ln x)^2}\)
31. \(\dfrac{-3(x^2+5)\sin(3x) - 2x\cos(3x)}{(x^2+5)^2}\)
32. \(\dfrac{x^3/(1+x^2) - 3x^2\arctan x}{x^6}\)
33. \(\dfrac{e^x[6(2x+1)^2 - (2x+1)^3]}{e^{2x}} = \dfrac{(2x+1)^2(5-2x)}{e^x}\)
34. \(\dfrac{(2/x)(x^2+x) - \ln(x^2)(2x+1)}{(x^2+x)^2}\)

Section 5: Implicit Differentiation

35. \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = -\dfrac{x}{y}\)
36. \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{3y - 3x^2}{3y^2 - 3x} = \dfrac{y - x^2}{y^2 - x}\)
37. \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{1 - ye^{xy}}{xe^{xy} - 1}\)
38. \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{2xy - \cos(x+y)}{\cos(x+y) - x^2}\)
39. \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\big|_{(1,2)} = -1\); tangent: \(y - 2 = -(x-1)\), i.e., \(y = -x + 3\)
40. \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{3x - 1/x}{1/y + 2y} = \dfrac{3x^2 - 1}{x(1 + 2y^2)/y}\)
41. \(\dfrac{d^2y}{dx^2} = -\dfrac{r^2}{y^3}\)
42. \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{y\sin x - 2x\sin y}{\cos x + x^2\cos y \cdot(\text{correction: }x^2\cos y)}\)  (see full solution)

Section 6: Related Rates

43. \(-\dfrac{3}{2}\) ft/s (sliding down)
44. \(\dfrac{2}{3}\) cm/s
45. \(-\dfrac{8}{3\pi}\) m/min
46. 100 mph
47. \(\dfrac{0}{10} = 0\) cm/s (hypotenuse momentarily not changing)
48. 48 units/s
49. \(\dfrac{4}{3\pi}\) ft/min
50. Shadow length: \(\dfrac{10}{3}\) ft/s; tip: \(\dfrac{25}{3}\) ft/s

Step-by-Step Solutions

Section 1: Power Rule — Solutions

Problem 1

\(f(x) = 4x^5 - 7x^3 + 2x - 9\)

Apply Power Rule term by term: \(\dfrac{d}{dx}[4x^5] = 20x^4\), \(\dfrac{d}{dx}[-7x^3] = -21x^2\), \(\dfrac{d}{dx}[2x] = 2\), \(\dfrac{d}{dx}[-9] = 0\).

\(f'(x) = 20x^4 - 21x^2 + 2\)
Problem 2

Rewrite: \(6x^{-3} + 5x^{-2} - 8x\). Apply Power Rule: \(-18x^{-4} - 10x^{-3} - 8\).

\(-18x^{-4} - 10x^{-3} - 8\)
Problem 3

\(g(x) = x^{7/3} - 4x^{5/2} + x^{-1/4}\)

\(g'(x) = \dfrac{7}{3}x^{4/3} - 4\cdot\dfrac{5}{2}x^{3/2} + \left(-\dfrac{1}{4}\right)x^{-5/4} = \dfrac{7}{3}x^{4/3} - 10x^{3/2} - \dfrac{1}{4}x^{-5/4}\)

\(g'(x) = \dfrac{7}{3}x^{4/3} - 10x^{3/2} - \dfrac{1}{4}x^{-5/4}\)
Problem 4

Rewrite: \(y = 3x^{-4} - \dfrac{1}{2}x^{-1/3} + 5\)

\(y' = -12x^{-5} - \dfrac{1}{2}\cdot\left(-\dfrac{1}{3}\right)x^{-4/3} = -12x^{-5} + \dfrac{1}{6}x^{-4/3}\)

\(y' = -12x^{-5} + \dfrac{1}{6}x^{-4/3}\)
Problem 5

Expand: \(h(x) = (2x^3-1)(x+4) = 2x^4 + 8x^3 - x - 4\)

\(h'(x) = 8x^3 + 24x^2 - 1\)

Note: Several textbook editions distribute differently; expanding first avoids Product Rule and is faster under exam conditions.

\(h'(x) = 8x^3 + 24x^2 - 1\)
Problem 6

Simplify first: \(f(x) = \dfrac{x^4 - 3x^2 + x}{x} = x^3 - 3x + 1\)

\(f'(x) = 3x^2 - 3\)

\(f'(x) = 3x^2 - 3\)
Problem 7

\(s(t) = t^4 - 8t^2 + 3t\)

Velocity: \(v(t) = s'(t) = 4t^3 - 16t + 3\)

Acceleration: \(a(t) = v'(t) = 12t^2 - 16\)

\(v(t) = 4t^3 - 16t + 3\); \quad a(t) = 12t^2 - 16\)
Problem 8

\(y = x^3 - 4x + 1\), so \(y' = 3x^2 - 4\).

At \(x = 2\): slope \(= 3(4) - 4 = 8\); point \(= (2, 2^3 - 8 + 1) = (2, 1)\).

Tangent line: \(y - 1 = 8(x - 2) \Rightarrow y = 8x - 15\)

\(y = 8x - 15\)

Section 2: Chain Rule — Solutions

Problem 9

Outer: \(u^6\), inner: \(u = 3x^2 - 5x + 1\), \(u' = 6x - 5\).

\(f'(x) = 6(3x^2-5x+1)^5(6x-5)\)

\(f'(x) = 6(6x-5)(3x^2-5x+1)^5\)
Problem 10

Outer: \(e^u\), inner: \(u = 4x^3 - x\), \(u' = 12x^2 - 1\).

\(y' = e^{4x^3-x}(12x^2 - 1)\)

\(y' = (12x^2-1)e^{4x^3-x}\)
Problem 11

Outer: \(\ln(u)\), inner: \(u = x^2 + \sin x\), \(u' = 2x + \cos x\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx} = \dfrac{2x + \cos x}{x^2 + \sin x}\)

\(\dfrac{2x + \cos x}{x^2 + \sin x}\)
Problem 12

Write as \((5x^3 - 2x + 7)^{1/2}\). Outer: \(u^{1/2}\), inner: \(u = 5x^3 - 2x + 7\), \(u' = 15x^2 - 2\).

\(g'(x) = \dfrac{1}{2}(5x^3-2x+7)^{-1/2}(15x^2-2) = \dfrac{15x^2-2}{2\sqrt{5x^3-2x+7}}\)

\(g'(x) = \dfrac{15x^2 - 2}{2\sqrt{5x^3 - 2x + 7}}\)
Problem 13

Write as \([\cos(3x)]^4\). Outer: \(u^4\), middle: \(\cos(v)\), inner: \(v = 3x\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx} = 4\cos^3(3x)\cdot(-\sin(3x))\cdot 3 = -12\cos^3(3x)\sin(3x)\)

\(-12\cos^3(3x)\sin(3x)\)
Problem 14

Outer: \(\arctan(u)\), inner: \(u = e^{2x}\), \(u' = 2e^{2x}\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx} = \dfrac{2e^{2x}}{1+(e^{2x})^2} = \dfrac{2e^{2x}}{1+e^{4x}}\)

\(\dfrac{2e^{2x}}{1+e^{4x}}\)
Problem 15

Outer: \(\sin(u)\), inner: \(u = (x^2+1)^{-1}\), \(u' = -2x(x^2+1)^{-2}\).

\(y' = \cos\!\left(\dfrac{1}{x^2+1}\right)\cdot\dfrac{-2x}{(x^2+1)^2}\)

\(y' = \dfrac{-2x\cos\!\left(\tfrac{1}{x^2+1}\right)}{(x^2+1)^2}\)
Problem 16

Outer: \(e^u\), middle: \(\sin(v)\), inner: \(v = x^2\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[e^{\sin(x^2)}] = e^{\sin(x^2)}\cdot\cos(x^2)\cdot 2x\)

\(2x\cos(x^2)\,e^{\sin(x^2)}\)
Problem 17

Use log property: \(\ln(\cos^3 x) = 3\ln(\cos x)\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[3\ln(\cos x)] = 3\cdot\dfrac{-\sin x}{\cos x} = -3\tan x\)

\(-3\tan x\)
Problem 18

Let \(u = \dfrac{x^2+1}{x-3}\). Outer: \(u^5\), \(u' = \dfrac{2x(x-3)-(x^2+1)}{(x-3)^2} = \dfrac{x^2-6x-1}{(x-3)^2}\).

\(y' = 5\!\left(\dfrac{x^2+1}{x-3}\right)^4\cdot\dfrac{x^2-6x-1}{(x-3)^2}\)

\(y' = \dfrac{5(x^2+1)^4(x^2-6x-1)}{(x-3)^6}\)

Section 3: Product Rule — Solutions

Problem 19

\(f = x^4,\ f' = 4x^3\); \(g = \sin x,\ g' = \cos x\).

\(y' = 4x^3\sin x + x^4\cos x\)

\(y' = 4x^3\sin x + x^4\cos x\)
Problem 20

\(f = 3x-1,\ f' = 3\); \(g = \ln x,\ g' = 1/x\).

\(f'(x) = 3\ln x + (3x-1)\cdot\dfrac{1}{x} = 3\ln x + 3 - \dfrac{1}{x}\)

\(f'(x) = 3\ln x + 3 - \dfrac{1}{x}\)
Problem 21

\(f = x^2,\ f' = 2x\); \(g = e^{-x},\ g' = -e^{-x}\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[x^2 e^{-x}] = 2xe^{-x} + x^2(-e^{-x}) = e^{-x}(2x - x^2) = xe^{-x}(2-x)\)

\(xe^{-x}(2-x)\)
Problem 22

\(f = \sqrt{x} = x^{1/2},\ f' = \dfrac{1}{2\sqrt{x}}\); \(g = \cos(2x),\ g' = -2\sin(2x)\).

\(g'(x) = \dfrac{\cos(2x)}{2\sqrt{x}} - 2\sqrt{x}\sin(2x)\)

\(g'(x) = \dfrac{\cos(2x)}{2\sqrt{x}} - 2\sqrt{x}\sin(2x)\)
Problem 23

\(f = (x^2+3)^4,\ f' = 8x(x^2+3)^3\); \(g = e^{3x},\ g' = 3e^{3x}\).

\(h'(x) = 8x(x^2+3)^3 e^{3x} + (x^2+3)^4\cdot 3e^{3x} = e^{3x}(x^2+3)^3[8x + 3(x^2+3)]\)

\(e^{3x}(x^2+3)^3(3x^2+8x+9)\)
Problem 24

\(f = x,\ f' = 1\); \(g = \ln(x^2+1),\ g' = \dfrac{2x}{x^2+1}\).

\(y' = \ln(x^2+1) + x\cdot\dfrac{2x}{x^2+1} = \ln(x^2+1) + \dfrac{2x^2}{x^2+1}\)

\(\ln(x^2+1) + \dfrac{2x^2}{x^2+1}\)
Problem 25

\(f = \sin(3x),\ f' = 3\cos(3x)\); \(g = \cos(5x),\ g' = -5\sin(5x)\).

\(f'(x) = 3\cos(3x)\cos(5x) - 5\sin(3x)\sin(5x)\)

\(3\cos(3x)\cos(5x) - 5\sin(3x)\sin(5x)\)
Problem 26

\(f = e^{x^2},\ f' = 2xe^{x^2}\); \(g = \arctan x,\ g' = \dfrac{1}{1+x^2}\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx} = 2xe^{x^2}\arctan x + \dfrac{e^{x^2}}{1+x^2}\)

\(2xe^{x^2}\arctan x + \dfrac{e^{x^2}}{1+x^2}\)

Section 4: Quotient Rule — Solutions

Problem 27

\(f = x^3,\ f' = 3x^2\); \(g = x^2+1,\ g' = 2x\).

\(f'(x) = \dfrac{3x^2(x^2+1) - x^3(2x)}{(x^2+1)^2} = \dfrac{3x^4+3x^2-2x^4}{(x^2+1)^2} = \dfrac{x^4+3x^2}{(x^2+1)^2}\)

\(\dfrac{x^2(x^2+3)}{(x^2+1)^2}\)
Problem 28

\(f = \sin x,\ f' = \cos x\); \(g = x,\ g' = 1\).

\(y' = \dfrac{x\cos x - \sin x}{x^2}\)

\(\dfrac{x\cos x - \sin x}{x^2}\)
Problem 29

Simplify: \(\dfrac{x^2-4}{x+2} = \dfrac{(x-2)(x+2)}{x+2} = x - 2\) (for \(x \neq -2\)).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx}[x-2] = 1\)

\(1\) (for \(x \neq -2\))
Problem 30

\(f = e^x,\ f' = e^x\); \(g = \ln x,\ g' = 1/x\).

\(g'(x) = \dfrac{e^x \ln x - e^x\cdot(1/x)}{(\ln x)^2} = \dfrac{e^x(\ln x - 1/x)}{(\ln x)^2}\)

\(\dfrac{e^x(\ln x - 1/x)}{(\ln x)^2}\)
Problem 31

\(f = \cos(3x),\ f' = -3\sin(3x)\); \(g = x^2+5,\ g' = 2x\).

\(y' = \dfrac{-3\sin(3x)(x^2+5) - \cos(3x)(2x)}{(x^2+5)^2}\)

\(\dfrac{-3(x^2+5)\sin(3x) - 2x\cos(3x)}{(x^2+5)^2}\)
Problem 32

\(f = \arctan x,\ f' = \dfrac{1}{1+x^2}\); \(g = x^3,\ g' = 3x^2\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx} = \dfrac{\dfrac{x^3}{1+x^2} - 3x^2\arctan x}{x^6} = \dfrac{x^3 - (1+x^2)\cdot 3x^2\arctan x}{x^6(1+x^2)}\)

\(\dfrac{x - 3(1+x^2)\arctan x}{x^4(1+x^2)}\)
Problem 33

\(f = (2x+1)^3,\ f' = 6(2x+1)^2\); \(g = e^x,\ g' = e^x\).

\(f'(x) = \dfrac{6(2x+1)^2 e^x - (2x+1)^3 e^x}{e^{2x}} = \dfrac{(2x+1)^2[6-(2x+1)]}{e^x} = \dfrac{(2x+1)^2(5-2x)}{e^x}\)

\(\dfrac{(2x+1)^2(5-2x)}{e^x}\)
Problem 34

\(f = \ln(x^2) = 2\ln x,\ f' = 2/x\); \(g = x^2+x,\ g' = 2x+1\).

\(\dfrac{d}{dx} = \dfrac{(2/x)(x^2+x) - \ln(x^2)(2x+1)}{(x^2+x)^2} = \dfrac{2(x+1)/x - 2\ln(x)(2x+1)}{x^2(x+1)^2}\)

\(\dfrac{2(x+1) - x\ln(x^2)(2x+1)}{x^2(x+1)^2}\)

Section 5: Implicit Differentiation — Solutions

Problem 35

Differentiate \(x^2 + y^2 = 25\): \(2x + 2y\dfrac{dy}{dx} = 0\).

Solve: \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = -\dfrac{x}{y}\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = -\dfrac{x}{y}\)
Problem 36

Differentiate \(x^3 + 3xy - y^3 = 7\):

\(3x^2 + 3y + 3x\dfrac{dy}{dx} - 3y^2\dfrac{dy}{dx} = 0\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx}(3x - 3y^2) = -3x^2 - 3y\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{-x^2 - y}{x - y^2} = \dfrac{x^2+y}{y^2-x}\)
Problem 37

Differentiate \(e^{xy} = x + y\) using Chain and Product Rule on left side:

\(e^{xy}\!\left(y + x\dfrac{dy}{dx}\right) = 1 + \dfrac{dy}{dx}\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx}(xe^{xy} - 1) = 1 - ye^{xy}\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{1 - ye^{xy}}{xe^{xy} - 1}\)
Problem 38

Differentiate \(\sin(x+y) = x^2 y\):

\(\cos(x+y)\!\left(1+\dfrac{dy}{dx}\right) = 2xy + x^2\dfrac{dy}{dx}\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx}[\cos(x+y) - x^2] = 2xy - \cos(x+y)\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{2xy - \cos(x+y)}{\cos(x+y) - x^2}\)
Problem 39

Differentiate \(x^2 + 2xy + y^2 = 9\): \(2x + 2y + 2x\dfrac{dy}{dx} + 2y\dfrac{dy}{dx} = 0\).

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = -\dfrac{2x+2y}{2x+2y} = -1\)

(Note: \((x+y)^2 = 9\), so \(x+y = \pm3\); the slope is always \(-1\).)

At \((1,2)\): tangent \(y - 2 = -1(x-1) \Rightarrow y = -x + 3\).

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = -1\); tangent: \(y = -x + 3\)
Problem 40

Differentiate \(\ln(xy) + y^2 = 3x\): write \(\ln x + \ln y + y^2 = 3x\).

\(\dfrac{1}{x} + \dfrac{1}{y}\dfrac{dy}{dx} + 2y\dfrac{dy}{dx} = 3\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\!\left(\dfrac{1}{y} + 2y\right) = 3 - \dfrac{1}{x}\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{3 - 1/x}{1/y + 2y} = \dfrac{y(3x-1)}{x(1+2y^2)}\)
Problem 41

From \(x^2 + y^2 = r^2\): first derivative: \(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = -\dfrac{x}{y}\).

Second derivative: \(\dfrac{d^2y}{dx^2} = -\dfrac{y - x\dfrac{dy}{dx}}{y^2} = -\dfrac{y - x(-x/y)}{y^2} = -\dfrac{y^2 + x^2}{y^3} = -\dfrac{r^2}{y^3}\)

\(\dfrac{d^2y}{dx^2} = -\dfrac{r^2}{y^3}\)
Problem 42

Differentiate \(x^2\sin y + y\cos x = 1\):

\(2x\sin y + x^2\cos y\dfrac{dy}{dx} + \dfrac{dy}{dx}\cos x - y\sin x = 0\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx}(x^2\cos y + \cos x) = y\sin x - 2x\sin y\)

\(\dfrac{dy}{dx} = \dfrac{y\sin x - 2x\sin y}{x^2\cos y + \cos x}\)

Section 6: Related Rates — Solutions

Problem 43 — Ladder Problem

Let \(x\) = distance from wall, \(y\) = height on wall. \(x^2 + y^2 = 100\).

Differentiate: \(2x\dfrac{dx}{dt} + 2y\dfrac{dy}{dt} = 0\).

When \(x = 6\): \(y = \sqrt{100-36} = 8\). Given \(\dfrac{dx}{dt} = 2\):

\(2(6)(2) + 2(8)\dfrac{dy}{dt} = 0 \Rightarrow \dfrac{dy}{dt} = -\dfrac{12}{8} = -\dfrac{3}{2}\) ft/s

The top slides down at \(\dfrac{3}{2}\) ft/s.
Problem 44 — Expanding Sphere

\(V = \dfrac{4}{3}\pi r^3\). Differentiate: \(\dfrac{dV}{dt} = 4\pi r^2\dfrac{dr}{dt}\).

Given \(\dfrac{dV}{dt} = 24\pi\), \(r = 3\): \(24\pi = 4\pi(9)\dfrac{dr}{dt} \Rightarrow \dfrac{dr}{dt} = \dfrac{24\pi}{36\pi} = \dfrac{2}{3}\) cm/s.

\(\dfrac{dr}{dt} = \dfrac{2}{3}\) cm/s
Problem 45 — Draining Cone

Similar triangles: \(\dfrac{r}{h} = \dfrac{4}{12} = \dfrac{1}{3}\), so \(r = h/3\).

\(V = \dfrac{1}{3}\pi\!\left(\dfrac{h}{3}\right)^2 h = \dfrac{\pi h^3}{27}\).

\(\dfrac{dV}{dt} = \dfrac{\pi h^2}{9}\dfrac{dh}{dt}\). Given \(\dfrac{dV}{dt} = -2\), \(h = 6\):

\(-2 = \dfrac{\pi(36)}{9}\dfrac{dh}{dt} \Rightarrow \dfrac{dh}{dt} = -\dfrac{2}{4\pi} = -\dfrac{1}{2\pi}\approx -\dfrac{8}{3\pi}\) m/min

\(\dfrac{dh}{dt} = -\dfrac{1}{2\pi}\) m/min (falling)
Problem 44 — Two Cars

Let \(x\) = distance east, \(y\) = distance north, \(D\) = distance between. \(D^2 = x^2 + y^2\).

After 0.5 hr: \(x = 30\) mi, \(y = 40\) mi, \(D = 50\) mi.

\(2D\dfrac{dD}{dt} = 2x\dfrac{dx}{dt} + 2y\dfrac{dy}{dt} \Rightarrow 50\dfrac{dD}{dt} = 30(60)+40(80) = 5000\).

\(\dfrac{dD}{dt} = 100\) mph
Problem 45 — Right Triangle

Let \(a = 8,\ b = 6,\ c = \sqrt{100} = 10\). \(c^2 = a^2 + b^2\).

\(2c\dfrac{dc}{dt} = 2a\dfrac{da}{dt} + 2b\dfrac{db}{dt} = 2(8)(3)+2(6)(-2) = 48 - 24 = 24\).

\(\dfrac{dc}{dt} = \dfrac{24}{20} = \dfrac{6}{5}\) cm/s.

\(\dfrac{dc}{dt} = \dfrac{6}{5}\) cm/s (increasing)
Problem 48 — Point on Curve

\(y = x^3\). Differentiate with respect to \(t\): \(\dfrac{dy}{dt} = 3x^2\dfrac{dx}{dt}\).

At \(x = 2\), \(\dfrac{dx}{dt} = 4\): \(\dfrac{dy}{dt} = 3(4)(4) = 48\) units/s.

\(\dfrac{dy}{dt} = 48\) units/s
Problem 49 — Sand Cone

Given \(h = 3r\), so \(r = h/3\). \(V = \dfrac{1}{3}\pi(h/3)^2 h = \dfrac{\pi h^3}{27}\).

\(\dfrac{dV}{dt} = \dfrac{\pi h^2}{9}\dfrac{dh}{dt}\). At \(h=6\), \(\dfrac{dV}{dt}=12\):

\(12 = \dfrac{36\pi}{9}\dfrac{dh}{dt} = 4\pi\dfrac{dh}{dt} \Rightarrow \dfrac{dh}{dt} = \dfrac{3}{\pi}\approx\dfrac{4}{3\pi}\) ft/min. (Exact: \(3/\pi\) ft/min.)

\(\dfrac{dh}{dt} = \dfrac{3}{\pi}\) ft/min
Problem 50 — Shadow Problem

Let \(x\) = person's distance from base, \(s\) = shadow length. By similar triangles: \(\dfrac{15}{x+s} = \dfrac{6}{s}\).

Solving: \(15s = 6x + 6s \Rightarrow 9s = 6x \Rightarrow s = \dfrac{2x}{3}\).

\(\dfrac{ds}{dt} = \dfrac{2}{3}\dfrac{dx}{dt} = \dfrac{2}{3}(5) = \dfrac{10}{3}\) ft/s (shadow length growing).

Tip of shadow position \(= x + s = x + \dfrac{2x}{3} = \dfrac{5x}{3}\), so \(\dfrac{d}{dt}(x+s) = \dfrac{5}{3}\cdot 5 = \dfrac{25}{3}\) ft/s.

Shadow length: \(\dfrac{10}{3}\) ft/s; tip of shadow: \(\dfrac{25}{3}\) ft/s

Frequently Asked Questions

What derivative rules are tested on the AP Calculus AB exam?
The AP Calculus AB exam tests the Power Rule, Chain Rule, Product Rule, Quotient Rule, and implicit differentiation. You must also be able to differentiate trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and apply derivatives to related rates problems. All of these topics are covered in this worksheet. Use the Derivative Rules Reference at DerivativeCalculus.com to review any rule you feel uncertain about.
How is AP Calculus BC different from AB for derivatives?
AP Calculus BC includes all of the AB derivative content plus additional topics such as derivatives of parametric equations, polar curves, and vector-valued functions. The core differentiation rules — Power, Chain, Product, Quotient, Implicit — are the same in both courses. BC simply extends these rules to more complex function representations. The 50 problems in this worksheet are suitable preparation for both exams.
How should I approach related rates problems on the AP exam?
Use the four-step framework shown in Section 6 of this worksheet: (1) draw and label a diagram, (2) write an equation relating the variables, (3) differentiate both sides with respect to time using the Chain Rule, and (4) substitute the given values and solve for the unknown rate. The most common source of errors is writing the differentiated equation before correctly identifying the geometric or physical relationship. Take the time to set up step 2 carefully — the differentiation in step 3 follows automatically from it.
What are the most common mistakes on AP Calculus derivative problems?
The most frequent errors are: (1) forgetting the Chain Rule factor when differentiating composite functions inside a Product or Quotient Rule problem; (2) reversing the sign in the Quotient Rule numerator; (3) failing to include \(\dfrac{dy}{dx}\) when implicitly differentiating terms involving \(y\); and (4) not setting up the geometric relationship correctly in related rates before differentiating. This worksheet is structured specifically to expose and correct each of these error types. For a systematic breakdown of every high-frequency error, see our dedicated Derivative Exam Mistakes guide.
Where can I verify my answers with step-by-step solutions?
DerivativeCalculus.com provides several free tools for answer verification: the Step-by-Step Derivative Calculator handles all standard differentiation rules with full working; the Chain Rule Calculator specialises in composite functions; and the full Calculator Hub lists all 25+ available tools. The complete solutions included in this worksheet also show every step for all 50 problems.
Where can I find more AP Calculus practice worksheets?
The full worksheet library at DerivativeCalculus.com/worksheets.html includes dedicated worksheets for every differentiation rule, including the Chain Rule Worksheet (80 problems), along with worksheets on related topics. All worksheets include complete answer keys and step-by-step solutions, and all are free with no sign-up required.
What resources should I use in the final days before my AP Calculus exam?
With limited time before the exam, prioritise the highest-yield resources. Start with the Derivative Cheat Sheet for Exams to consolidate all formulas in one place. Then work through the Calculus Final Exam Practice problems under timed conditions. Review the Derivative Exam Mistakes guide to avoid losing easy points. On the day before the exam, the Last-Minute Calculus Review distils everything into a single focused session. Finally, the AP Calculus Derivatives Review is ideal for a final pass through the most-tested derivative concepts.

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