Glossary term · Calculus reference

Integration By Parts: Meaning, Notation, and Example

Reverses the product rule for integration.

Definition and meaning

Choose u so differentiation simplifies it and dv so it can be integrated cleanly.

The term integration by parts names a precise mathematical idea, not merely a visual pattern. Read its notation as a statement with hypotheses, quantities, and a conclusion.

Notation

udv=uvvdu\int u\,dv=uv-\int v\,du

Read every symbol with its domain and hypotheses; notation compresses an argument but does not remove its conditions.

Worked example

Identify the quantities in the notation, state the relevant hypothesis, and explain what conclusion the integration by parts statement permits.

Common confusion

Do not treat integration by parts as a keyword that automatically selects a formula; its hypotheses and domain still control the conclusion.

Revised 2026-07-23. Original BetterGrades material. Free classroom and personal study use with attribution; no resale.