Programming in Derive 5

Introduction 

Derive 5 has new programming capabilities that allow the user much more control over how they (and Derive) can do mathematics.  In previous versions of Derive it has been possible to write programs (functions), however one had to be quite ingenious to get Derive to perform more complicated mathematical tasks.  When programming more complicated algorithms, usually a number of auxiliary functions needed to be defined so that results could be passed down through these hierarchical functions.  In effect, this made programming in Derive a tricky business.  In addition, debugging programs and understanding their construction could also be a difficult process. 

Derive 5 now has some important programming constructs that have revolutionised the way that programs can be written and displayed in the Derive mathematical environment.  These short tutorials aims to give an introduction into programming in Derive and also act as a reference of Derive programming functions.  Albert Rich’s vision of programming in Derive is that of a “lean and mean” environment, where the user can build their own tools from very few constructs.  Programming in Derive is very much like playing chess, the rules are very simple but their application is much more demanding.  In writing these tutorials the assumption is made that the reader is familiar with using Derive 5.  If you are not familiar with Derive 5 then the book Introduction to Derive 5 by Kutzler & Kokol-Voljc is strongly recommended (this book accompanies the Derive 5 CD).

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