I'm working on my Calc homework, and I just came across something I can't remember from class.
Find the derivative:
f(x)=(x^2 +x-1)/(x^2 -1)
My question is that, when finding the derivative of an equation like this, should I leave it the way it is, or factor it and cancel what I can?

Question

I'm working on my Calc homework, and I just came across something I can't remember from class. 
Find the derivative:
f(x)=(x^2 +x-1)/(x^2 -1)
My question is that, when finding the derivative of an equation like this, should I leave it the way it is, or factor it and cancel what I can?

anonymous · Answer

If you cancel what you can, you're just filling some removable discontinuities so I think it should be fine.

anonymous · Answer

Just use the Product Rule to derive without canceling anything?

lalaly · Answer

use quotient rule

anonymous · Answer

*facepalm* Yeah, I, err, meant Quotient Rule, not the, umm, Product Rule.
>.<

lalaly · Answer

do u know the quotient rule?

anonymous · Answer

I don't see anything you could cancel out of their anyway

anonymous · Answer

Yes, I do.
And you could factor out a (x-1) and cancel it, if my math's not wrong.

lalaly · Answer

u cant cancel anything coz x-1 is not a factor of  the nominator

anonymous · Answer

Well, I feel stupid now.

anonymous · Answer

Sorry, guys

lalaly · Answer

lols its ok :D 
Goodluck;)