---
title: "Sum Rule — AP Calc Definition for Limits & Derivatives"
description: "The Sum Rule says the limit (or derivative) of a sum equals the sum of the limits (or derivatives). It powers term-by-term work in Topic 1.5 and beyond."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-calc/key-terms/sum-rule"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Calculus AB/BC"
---

# Sum Rule — AP Calc Definition for Limits & Derivatives

## Definition

The sum rule is a calculus rule that states that the derivative of the sum of two functions is equal to the sum of their derivatives.

## Related Study Guides

- [Unit 2 Overview: Differentiation](/ap-calc/unit-2/review/study-guide/HGq8OPntbFvqp1uRuEcj)
- [1.5 Determining Limits Using Algebraic Properties of Limits](/ap-calc/unit-1/determining-limits-using-algebraic-properties-limits/study-guide/HjStgVKViPGZj1CxYwEB)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Product Rule](/ap-calc/key-terms/product-rule): The product rule is a calculus rule that allows us to find the derivative of a function that is the product of two other functions.
- [Quotient Rule](/ap-calc/key-terms/quotient-rule): The quotient rule is a calculus rule used to find the derivative of a function that represents the division of two other functions.
- [Chain Rule](/ap-calc/key-terms/chain-rule): The chain rule is a calculus rule used to find the derivative of composite functions, where one function is applied to another.