After completing this section, students should be able to do the following.

  • Understand the statement of the Extreme Value Theorem.
  • Understand the statement of the Mean Value Theorem.
  • Sketch pictures to illustrate why the Mean Value Theorem is true.
  • Determine whether Rolle’s Theorem or the Mean Value Theorem can be applied.
  • Find the values guaranteed by Rolle’s Theorem or the Mean Value Theorem.
  • Use the Mean Value Theorem to solve word problems.
  • Compare and contrast the Intermediate Value Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, and Rolle’s Theorem.
  • Identify calculus ideas which are consequences of the Mean Value Theorem.