Abstract Investigating Methods of Partial Fraction Decomposition Anthony David Newberry, MA The University of Texas at Austin, 2011 Supervisor: Efraim Armendariz This report discusses the history of partial fractions. The paper investigates several methods of solving partial fraction decomposition problems. First, the basic method taught in most calculus courses is addressed. Another method addressed is a substitution method in which a clever substitution is used to transform expressions into something more easily integrable. Then, a rationale for partial fraction decomposition is given that includes a number theory perspective, a calculus perspective, and an algebraic perspective. A fourth method discussed involves using derivatives. / text