CLEP Calculus study plan
CLEP Calculus · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Limits
Evaluate limits graphically, numerically, and algebraically, including one-sided limits
Apply limit laws and algebraic manipulation (factoring, rationalizing, common denominators) to resolve indeterminate forms
Distinguish removable, jump, and infinite discontinuities and classify them from a given function
State and apply the formal epsilon-delta definition of a limit at an introductory level
Your checkpoint
A 20-question self-made limit quiz scored at 80% or higher, with every missed item rewritten and re-solved correctly
Differential Calculus
Compute derivatives from the limit definition for polynomial and simple radical functions
Apply power, constant multiple, sum, product, and quotient rules fluently
Differentiate composite functions using the chain rule in nested and multi-layer forms
Differentiate trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions
Your checkpoint
A one-page derivative-rules reference sheet plus 30 solved derivative problems with work shown
Differential Calculus
Perform implicit differentiation and solve for dy/dx
Differentiate inverse trigonometric functions and apply logarithmic differentiation
Solve related-rates problems by setting up and differentiating a geometric relationship
Interpret derivatives as instantaneous rates of change and as slopes of tangent lines
Your checkpoint
Five fully worked related-rates word problems with labeled diagrams and final answers with units
Differential Calculus
Find critical points and use first and second derivative tests to classify extrema
Determine intervals of increase/decrease and concavity, and locate inflection points
Apply the Mean Value Theorem and Rolle's Theorem to verify conditions and conclusions
Solve applied optimization problems with constrained variables
Sketch accurate curves from derivative sign information
Your checkpoint
A timed 45-minute mock exam covering differential calculus, scored and error-logged by topic
Integral Calculus
Compute antiderivatives using the power rule and basic trigonometric and exponential forms
Evaluate definite integrals using the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
Approximate definite integrals with left, right, midpoint, and trapezoidal sums and compare to exact values
Interpret definite integrals as net signed area and as accumulated change
Your checkpoint
A comparison table of four Riemann-sum approximations versus the exact integral for three functions, with error analysis
Integral Calculus
Apply u-substitution to indefinite and definite integrals, changing limits of integration
Use integration by parts and recognize when it is the appropriate technique
Set up and evaluate area between curves and volumes of solids of revolution
Apply the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals
Your checkpoint
A worked problem set of 15 integrals and 5 area/volume applications, with substitution steps shown explicitly
Limits & Differential Calculus & Integral Calculus
Review limit, derivative, and integral techniques in interleaved practice rather than blocked practice
Diagnose recurring error patterns from prior weeks' logs and correct them
Complete full-length timed practice under exam conditions
Manage pacing to finish all sections within time limits
Your checkpoint
Two full-length timed practice exams with a written error-pattern summary identifying the top three recurring mistakes
Differential Calculus & Integral Calculus
Re-drill the highest-frequency differential and integral techniques to automaticity
Re-solve every previously missed problem without notes
Verify formula recall for rules, theorems, and standard integrals
Simulate final-day exam pacing and confirm test-day logistics
Your checkpoint
A clean-slate retake of all missed problems achieving 90% or higher, plus a one-page final formula sheet
Milestones
Week 2: Score 80% or higher on a 15-question limit-and-derivative-rule quiz without notes
Week 4: Complete the differential calculus mock exam within 45 minutes with at least 75% accuracy
Week 6: Correctly evaluate 12 of 15 mixed integration problems, including at least 4 u-substitution and 2 by-parts items
Week 8: Score 85% or higher on a final full-length timed practice exam and clear the missed-problem retake at 90%