Identify the two values being compared
Find the change in the quantity by subtracting the initial value from the final value
Find the change in time or other independent variable by subtracting the initial value from the final value
Divide the change in quantity by the change in time or independent variable
Write the result as a ratio, fraction, or per-unit value
Use units in the final answer
For average rate of change, use the formula `(f(b) – f(a)) / (b – a)`
For instantaneous rate of change, find the derivative if applicable
Check that the units make sense
Interpret whether the result is positive, negative, or zero