Read all about the basics Differentiation techniques here. (Examples included) I would like to share one question from my A-Math Ultimate Leap Programme (weekly coaching class) which has 2 different approaches to solve it.

Example:

Very often, I notice students will jump into Quotient rule whenever a fraction is given. Just like this student here:

May I suggest that you pause for 3 seconds to think about the approach. Ask yourself ‘Is there anything I can simplify?’

Here’s another student who pauses:

Notice this student spends his time simplifying before applying chain rule in differentiation.

I hope you enjoy this example. Both students are correct in their answers, which one do you prefer more? A or B?

]]> http://www.singaporeolevelmaths.com/2010/01/28/a-math-differentiation-shortcut-lies-in-pausing-simplifying/feed/ 2 http://www.singaporeolevelmaths.com/2008/10/07/a-math-this-plane-geometry-question-almost-drives-me-to-insanity/ http://www.singaporeolevelmaths.com/2008/10/07/a-math-this-plane-geometry-question-almost-drives-me-to-insanity/#comments Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:39:33 +0000 Ai Ling http://singaporeolevelmaths.com/?p=346 Plane geometry is one of the top killer questions in A-Math as there are many things to prove in addition to the many lines, circles, triangles, angles …

Read about the post I wrote earlier What you need to know to do well in Plane Geometry Part 1

I must admit this question almost drives me to insanity ;-) but luckily I saw the light when I was on the verge of sane and insanity …

Question: Prove that a circle can be drawn passing through the points T,P,X and Q. [3 marks]

Let me know how you handle this question in the comments section. For those who wants the step by step solution, drop me a comment as well. I highly recommend that you think about this question first before asking for solution.

There are 2 strategies I have used to help me in this Plane Geometry question. Do you want to know? so that you can learn and use them in your own question.

Hint: You must use one of the properties of circles.

Update: Video solution Here