How to Calculate Limits Using Algebra

Limits are the values that functions approach as x approaches a certain number, which is generally infinity. Some Algebra classes cover the limit, and limits are always important in upper-level math classes such as Calculus, as a precursor to derivatives. If you are familiar with algebraic equations, you can easily calculate limits using concepts in algebra. You don't even need a calculator, although using one may help you save time.

Things You'll Need

  • Calculator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Construct a table with two columns, for x-values and y-values.

    • 2

      Choose x-values to plug into the function. These x-values must be close to the number for which you want the limit. For instance, if you want the limit of y=1/(x+1) as x approaches 2, then you could plug in 1.7, 1.8, 1.85, 1.9, 1.95, 1.96, 1.97, 1.98, 1.99, etc. If you want the limit of the same function as x approaches infinity, then just plug in increasingly large numbers: 100, 1000, 10000, 100000, 1000000, etc.

    • 3

      Notice any tendencies that emerge as you plug in numbers that are increasingly close to the value in question. Here, as x values get closer and closer to 2, the value of the function approaches 1/3. As x values get closer and closer to infinity, the denominator gets larger, and the function gets more minuscule, approaching 0. Thus, the limit as x approaches 2 is 1/3 and the limit as x approaches infinity is 0.

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