DIFF: Calculator for second and third order derivative computation

Although finite difference methods in engineering education have been the subject of the study for a long time, the improvement in formulations is still object of interest. In this context, design of calculators based on these methods becomes important. The aim of this article is to design a calculator (DIFF) which computes second and third order derivatives for any functions in parts of mathematics problems. Any kind of user can use DIFF conveniently because of its versatility and easy-to-understand property. MATLAB is selected as a platform for this purpose. It is the first time that MATLAB Graphical User Interface (GUI) and Apps are both used for algorithm embedded in DIFF. This algorithm includes not only Backward and Forward finite difference methods but also other techniques such as improved Forward and Backward finite difference methods for computation of second and third order derivatives of any functions, concurrently. Numerical results and screenshots for each application obtained from DIFF are presented.