Suppose you have an infinite series $$\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n^2 + 9}$$
Using the direct comparison test, the sequence can obviously be compared to $\sum_{n=1}^\infty\frac{1}{n^2}$ since it is smaller, and then by the p-series test, since $\sum\frac{1}{n^2}$ converges $\sum\frac{1}{n^2+9}$ also converges. This makes sense since when $\lim{n\to \infty}$, the $9$ is negligible.
In other cases though, the series is not simple. Take for example: $$\sum_{n=1}^\infty\frac{\ln^4(x)}{n}$$ The end behavior at $\infty$ is not as simple as the first one. How do you know what sequence to compare $\frac{\ln^4(n)}{n}$ to? How do you know what term is dominant? Take the derivative and compare? Is there a technique?
Another example: $$\sum_{n=2}^\infty\frac{n}{n^3-1}$$ I know the sequence compares to $\frac{1}{n^2}$, but is there some logical technique that allows us to make that comparison?
Essentially, my question is how do you figure out the comparison sequence? Before, I have been taught to take the most dominant term in the numerator and denominator and use those as a comparison, but I feel this technique is prone to error. I realize these questions are a bit elementary, but I think the basic logic would be useful.
Thank you.
Alternative method: $$\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{n}{n^3 - 1}=\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1/n^2}{1 - 1/n^3} \rightarrow 0$$