Show that the equation of the tangent to the curve y=x3-x2 at the point where x= -1 is y=5x+3

I assume you're in a claculus class. By now, you should know to use proper syntax.

What is this?: y=x3-x2.

That is what the ^(SHIFT 6) key is for.

Find the derivative of y and use x=-1 to find the slope at that point. It should be 5



After all, that is what a derivative does. Then, use y=mx+b and your given points , (-1,y(-1)), to find the tangent line equation. Just plug in x, y, and m and solve for b. That's it.

Do you know of 'Garbage In Garbage Out'? It's a computer term. If you make the wrong input, it's obvious that you will have a wrong output. So, if you want proper help, try making a minimum of efforts.

the person might not know of the purpose of '^'. A lot of people don't use computers, and therefore wouldn't know the syntax.. Sir andrew wiles is one example. Pay no attention to them Stewart :)

That's why we are telling him how to do it! So that next time, he may make a better input!

There are nicer ways to go about informing people.

"I assume you're in a claculus class. By now, you should know to use proper syntax.

What is this?: y=x3-x2."

Is not one of them, it's patronising and rude.

Well, I guess each one of us has his/her own personality and his/her own way to tell things, so long as the intention is the same.

That's perfect rationalisation. Sarcasm.

I just hope you aren't in a position of national power.

Hmm, I'm 17 by the way... so no worries about it.

I'll leave it at that then, won't continue with this. For 17 your level of maths is very good.

I'll take it as a compliment, thanks! :)