The Hitchhiker's Guide to Calculus begins with a rapid view of lines and slope. Spivak then takes up non-linear functions and trigonometric functions. He places the magnifying glass on curves in the next chapter and effortlessly leads the reader to the idea of derivative. In the next chapter he tackles speed and velocity, followed by the derivative of sine. Maxima and minima are next. Rolle's theorem and the MVT form the core of Chapter 11, ""Watching Experts at Play.""

The Hitchhiker's Guide to Calculus closes with a chapter on the integral, the fundamental theorem, and applications of the integral.