A turning point could be an inflection point, but it could also refer to a sudden change. Inflection points are generally gradual. Also, there is nothing about a turning point that implies that things will be going in the opposite direction, whereas inflection points do have that kind of implication.

Are turning points the same as points of inflection?

Note: all turning points are stationary points, but not all stationary points are turning points. A point where the derivative of the function is zero but the derivative does not change sign is known as a point of inflection, or saddle point.

How do you find the inflection points and turning points?

Finding Stationary Points and Points of Inflection

Differentiating once and putting f '(x) = 0 will find all of the stationary points. Examining the gradient on either side of the stationary point will determine its nature, i.e. Maximum, minimum or point of inflection.