Integration by Parts (Edexcel A Level Maths): Revision Note
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Integration by Parts
What is Integration by Parts?
For integrating the product of two functions - reverse product rule
Crucially the product is made from u and dv/dx (rather than u and v)
Alternative notation may be used
How do I use Integration by Parts?
The hardest part is choosing u and dv/dx as there is no method for doing so
u, ideally, becomes simpler when differentiated but this is not always possible
dv/dx should be a function that can be integrated fairly easily
Be wary of functions that ‘cycle’/’repeat’ when differentiated/integrated
ex → ex
sin x → cos x → -sin x → -cos x → sin x
STEP 1: Choose u and v’, find u’ and v
STEP 2: Apply Integration by Parts
Simplify anything straightforward
STEP 3: Do the ‘second’ integral
If an indefinite integral remember “+c”, the constant of integration
STEP 4: Simplify and/or apply limits
What happens if I cannot integrate v × du/dx?
It is possible integration by parts may need to be applied more than once
ln x
A classic ‘set piece’ in almost every A level maths textbook ever written!
In general, rewriting f(x) as 1×f(x) can be a powerful problem-solving technique
This could be a question in the exam
How do I find a definite integral using parts?
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Always think about what an elegant, slick, professional maths solution looks like – solutions normally get more complicated at first but quickly get simpler.
If your work is continuing to get more complicated, stop and check for an error.
Try to develop a sense of ‘having gone too far down the wrong path’.
This general advice is useful to remember:
Is the second integral harder than the first?
Try swapping your choice of u and dv/dx
It is rare to have to apply integration by parts more than twice
Worked Example
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