How to find the derivative at a point on a TI-84 Plus CE

By E-Code · updated 2026-09-27

Press MATH and 8 for the d/dx template, type the variable, ▶, the function, ▶ and the X value, then ▶ and ENTER. The derivative of X² at X = 3 is 6.

Step by step

Open MATH. MATH Press MATH. Item 8, further down the list, is nDeriv(, the numerical derivative.
Pick nDeriv(. 8 Press 8. The d/dx template appears, with the cursor in the box after the lower d.
The variable. X,T,θ,n ▶ Type X,T,θ,n for d/dX, then press ▶ into the brackets. The X after the bar fills in by itself.
The function. X,T,θ,n X² ▶ Type X,T,θ,n then x² for X², then press ▶ to the box after X=.
The point. 3 ▶ Type 3: the derivative at X = 3. Press ▶ to leave the template.
Work it out. ENTER Press ENTER.
Read the derivative. 6: the derivative of X² is 2X, and 2 × 3 = 6. The template estimates it, so other functions may show tiny rounding.

6: the derivative of X² is 2X, and 2 × 3 = 6. The template estimates it, so other functions may show tiny rounding.

Look for 6 on the screen.

This guide is one of E-Code's Learn lessons. Open it on E-Code's TI-84 calculator and each key lights up in turn as you press it.

Math programs for the TI-84 Plus CE: