Calculus through Data & Modeling: Applying Differentiation

Johns Hopkins develops practical uses of differentiation from local approximations to constrained optimization. Single-variable extrema lead into multivariable problems and Lagrange multipliers. The final project brings those ideas together. This scope helps learners distinguish finding a stationary point from explaining whether it solves the original modeling problem.

What you will learn

• Construct a linear approximation or tangent plane.
• Investigate single- and multivariable extrema.
• Use Lagrange multipliers in a constrained problem.

Who this suits

Intermediate learners; detailed prerequisites are not listed. Preview partial derivatives and the algebra needed for optimization exercises.

Before you enroll

Work through the algebra as well as the numerical answer. Sketch the function or region involved and check which assumptions allow the chosen calculus method to apply.

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Put it into practice

Formulate a small constrained optimization problem. Identify candidate points and explain which boundary or feasibility checks remain before choosing a solution.

Source and review

This overview is based on the provider's published information, checked on 12 October 2026. It is an editorial assessment, not a claim that we completed the resource. Time filters are approximate study ranges; projects and exercises can take longer.

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