First Derivative Test

Definition

The First Derivative Test is a method used to determine the intervals on which a function is increasing or decreasing, and to identify local extrema (maximum or minimum) points.

Related terms

Critical Points:

These are the points where the derivative of a function equals zero or does not exist.

Local Extrema:

These are the maximum and minimum points of a function within a specific interval.

Increasing/Decreasing Intervals: These are intervals where the function is either always increasing or always decreasing.