Calculus for the Curious

by Nick McIntyre

Overview

A patient, Python-centric introduction to calculus and programming that uses Python to teach core math concepts and create graphs.

The easy-to-learn Python programming language offers a convenient way to create the graphs and other visualizations required for calculus.

In this book, readers first learn the basics of programming in Python with a focus on the Turtle Graphics module, which lets users create complex images. With that graphing tool in hand, readers are then patiently taught calculus from the ground up, covering derivatives, integrals, and the fundamental theorem.

With essential concepts in hand, readers of later chapters will explore more advanced topics, such as differential equations and linear algebra, while using popular Python libraries like NumPy and pygame.

Covers Python 3.x, Jupyter Notebook, Turtle Graphics, NumPy, and pygame

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781718504486
Publisher:	No Starch Press
Publication date:	01/06/2026
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 9.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Nick McIntyre loves designing creative learning experiences. A former math teacher, he now teaches high school robotics and computer science with an emphasis on service and self-expression. Outside the classroom, McIntyre spent a year making the p5.js (https://p5js.org) reference more accessible with support from the Processing Foundation.

Table of Contents

Foreword
Acknowledgments
Introduction

Chapter 1: Python Basics
Chapter 2: Drawing with Turtle Graphics
Chapter 3: Functions and Derivatives
Chapter 4: Integrals
Chapter 5: Ordinary Differential Equations and Vectors
Chapter 6: Dynamical Systems
Chapter 7: Linear Algebra with NumPy
Chapter 8: Multivariable Calculus
Chapter 9: Fourier Transforms

Appendix A
Bibliography
Index