Integrating factors -- how in the world does one calculate those?

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Is there an easier way of computing an integrating factor for differential equations? I need help understanding how to calculate those. I know the reason for them but just not familiar with how to compute exponential power functions. Help please

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You need to specify which type of differential equation you are trying to solve, i.e. linear, nonlinear, first order, etc.

Since you said exponential, I'm assuming you mean first order linear? (It's the only type I know that has an exponential integrating factor). Simply take the exponential of the coefficient of the linear term. For $y'+P(x)y=Q(x)$, the integrating factor is $e^{ \int P(x)\; dx}$

If that's not the type of diff. eq. you wanted, please specify.