Summary sheets for reference

•  Summary of common MAPLE commands 
  This worksheet contains a listing of the main commands used for single variable calculus. Brief descriptions and typical examples are provided.
  
  
•  Special symbols and standard mathematical funcctions

MAPLE notation of the standard mathematical functions and constants. Symbols which have special uses in MAPLE.

Contents of introductory worksheets

• Jabu and Gail's First Worksheet

This special worksheet was developed from a live session with two students form the University of Cape Town, Jabu and Gail, who inquired about MAPLE after attending a MAPLE presentation. It reflects questions and explanations that arose when Jabu and Gail made up their own problem: investigating a polynomial. Topics include: the worksheet interface; entering algebraic expressions; assigning names; plotting; solving an equation; derivatives; entering text; using Maple's on-line help; error messages; do loop. Thanks, Jabu and Gail!
 
• Simple 2D Graphing

Graph an explicitly given function of one variable. Graph horizontal and vertical lines, line segments, discrete points. Graph several curves (or other objects) on the same axes. Graph equations (implicitly given functions). Graph parametrically given curves (covered only briefly). Improve the picture by the use of options.
 
• Functions vs. Expressions

Learn the difference between functions and expressions. Evaluate a function at a specific value. Convert between function (arrow) notation and expression notation. Combine functions by algebraic operations (+,-,*,/) and composition.
 
• Derivatives

Calculate the derivative of a function of a single variable. Evaluate the derivative at a specific x-value. Find higher derivatives. Differentiate an implicitly given function.

How to use the introductory worksheets

• After opening a worksheet, always start by executing the command

> restart;
which is located right under the heading of the worksheet.
• To execute a command, position the cursor somewhere in the command line (point & click) and press (Enter).
• MAPLE input is printed in red and preceded by a ">" sign, the input prompt.
• Please be a participant - don't view the worksheet passively! Before you execute a MAPLE command, try to predict its outcome. Observe output and error messages. Experiment by changing commands.