---
title: "General Solution — AP Calculus Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "A general solution is the family of all functions satisfying a differential equation, written with +C. Learn how separation of variables finds it in AP Calc Unit 7."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-calc/key-terms/general-solution"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Calculus AB/BC"
---

# General Solution — AP Calculus Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The general solution is an expression that includes all possible solutions to a differential equation. It typically contains one or more arbitrary constants.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Particular Solution](/ap-calc/key-terms/particular-solution): A specific solution to a differential equation that satisfies additional given conditions or constraints.
- Homogeneous Equation: A differential equation where all terms involving the dependent variable and its derivatives are set equal to zero.
- Non-homogeneous Equation: A differential equation where terms involving the dependent variable and its derivatives are not set equal to zero.