Field Guide/Calculus/Numerical optimization
Core3 min

Solve an optimization problem numerically

You have an objective function and a feasible interval but an exact stationary point is awkward.

01

Press these keys

Y=WINDOWminimum / maximum

Step 1 of 3. Press Y=.

02

Walkthrough

  1. 1
    Model and constrain

    Write the objective function and feasible domain before graphing.

  2. 2
    Find candidate

    Graph on the feasible interval and use minimum or maximum.

  3. 3
    Compare boundaries

    Evaluate endpoints as well as stationary candidates.

03

Worked example

Maximize A(x)=x(12−2x) for 0≤x≤6.

AnswerMaximum area 18 square units at x=3.