Solving calculus problems is tough. How do you get started with a really tricky problem? Here are a couple of ways to crack those tough calculus problems.

• Read your calculus book. This one sounds simple, but lots of people don't even bother! The book has lots of problems in it, and you might be able to find a similar problem in the examples. The explanation might give you a hint on how to solve the problem you're looking at. If there's a similar problem in the homework problems and there's a solution at the end of the book, you may be able to use the solution to see how to solve the problem.
• Read other calculus books. Again, look for examples similar to the problem you're looking for. Being familiar with one or two books other than the one you use for class never hurts. Teachers often take test problems from other books, too. You can usually find the last version of several textbooks in the library.
• Ask another student. This is always a good way to do problems. Two people can do more problems than one, and you'll learn more than working by yourself. Find somebody who is at or slightly above your skill level. Don't waste time talking to people who don't know what they're talking about. Strike up some conversations at the beginning of the semester to meet some potential study buddies. Solving calculus problems in a group is not only more productive, it's more fun.
• Ask your teacher or TA. Again, lots of students don't do this at all. Your professor, teacher, or teaching assistant is the best resource you have for solving the calculus problems you're assigned. They already know how to do it, and they're getting paid to teach you. Don't be embarrassed about asking questions. It's much better to find out before the homework is due or before the day of the test. If you already knew how to do the problems, you wouldn't be taking the class.
• Get a tutor. This one costs money, but it can really pay off in the long term. Spending some time with a personal tutor can get you better grades, for one, and you'll understand calculus better. Look for a tutor who is available to meet at a time and place you're comfortable with, one who is experienced in tutoring the class you're taking, and one who you like.

Alexander MacLane is an educator with years of experience helping students succeed at math. He enjoys sharing his expertise solving calculus problems and maintains a list of calculus solutions.  Why not see if your problem is one of them?