Teaching/Calculus/Lecture Notes
Calculus · Course 03

Lecture Notes

Single- and multivariable calculus with rigorous foundations, optimization and dynamics for economics and statistics.

Complete written notes for each session. Every set of notes opens with learning objectives and closes with a problem set, a computational lab and readings. Use Print / save as PDF on any lecture page for an offline copy.

Lec #Topic and objectivesLength
Part I · Single-variable analysis
1Limits, Continuity, and the Logic of Analysis
Use epsilon-delta definitions; evaluate limits; distinguish pointwise values from limiting behavior; establish continuity; apply the intermediate and extreme value theorems.
9 min read
2Sequences, Convergence, and Infinite Series
Define convergence rigorously; use monotone convergence and Cauchy criteria; test infinite series; distinguish absolute and conditional convergence; analyze power series.
8 min read
3Differentiation, Mean Value Theorems, and Comparative Rates
Derive derivatives from first principles; apply differentiation rules; use mean value theorems; interpret marginal effects, elasticities, and comparative rates.
8 min read
4Taylor Approximation, Convexity, and Single-Variable Optimization
Derive Taylor approximations; classify stationary points; use convexity; solve economic optimization problems and interpret first- and second-order conditions.
7 min read
5Integration, Riemann Sums, and the Fundamental Theorem
Define the Riemann integral; connect antiderivatives and accumulated area; apply substitution and integration by parts; evaluate improper integrals and interpret economic accumulation.
7 min read
Part II · Multivariable calculus
6Multivariable Functions, Limits, and Continuity
Analyze domains and level sets; define multivariate limits and continuity; distinguish pathwise behavior from genuine limits; interpret surfaces and economic production functions.
8 min read
7Partial Derivatives, Total Differentials, and the Chain Rule
Compute partial derivatives; interpret gradients and directional derivatives; derive total differentials; apply multivariate chain rules and Jacobians.
7 min read
8Hessians and Unconstrained Multivariable Optimization
Use Hessian matrices to classify curvature; derive multivariate first- and second-order conditions; apply optimization to utility, production, and likelihood functions.
8 min read
Part III · Optimization and implicit functions
9Equality Constraints and Lagrange Multipliers
Derive Lagrange conditions; interpret multipliers as shadow values; solve constrained optimization problems; understand regularity and second-order conditions.
8 min read
10Inequality Constraints and Karush–Kuhn–Tucker Conditions
State KKT conditions; identify active constraints; interpret complementary slackness; distinguish necessary and sufficient conditions; solve inequality-constrained economic problems.
8 min read
11Implicit and Inverse Function Theorems
State local implicit and inverse function results; derive comparative statics; analyze equilibrium systems using Jacobians; distinguish local from global uniqueness.
8 min read
Part IV · Multiple integration
12Multiple Integrals, Change of Variables, and Probability
Evaluate double and triple integrals; use Fubini's theorem; change coordinates with Jacobians; derive marginal densities and expectations.
7 min read
Part V · Dynamic systems
13Differential Equations and Continuous-Time Dynamics
Solve first-order ODEs; analyze second-order linear equations; study systems using eigenvalues; interpret steady states and stability in economic dynamics.
8 min read
14Difference Equations and Discrete-Time Dynamics
Solve first-order difference equations; analyze fixed points and local stability; study linear systems; apply discrete dynamics to economic adjustment and growth.
7 min read