Calculator Tips Most Students Don't Know

A scientific calculator has functions students don't realise they're allowed to use. Six that pay off:

1. ANS

After every calculation, the answer is stored in ANS. To use it in the next calculation, press the ANS key (often labelled Ans). Saves rewriting numbers and avoids transcription errors.

2. The fraction key

Most modern calculators have a proper fraction display. Use it. Decimals lose precision; fractions don't.

3. The TABLE function

Casio fx-991 and similar can plot a table of values for any function. Useful in coordinate geometry, calculus, and statistics.

4. SOLVE and EQN

Some scientific calculators can solve equations directly. Check whether yours allows this in your exam (most A Level / SAT exams do).

5. Standard form / scientific notation

Press the SHIFT+x10^n key. Saves typing zeros for chemistry molarity questions and physics powers-of-ten questions.

6. Memory keys (M+, M-, MR)

Underused. Store an intermediate result in memory while you continue with another calculation.

Use Help in Study Calculators for the things your physical calculator can't do well

• Percentage chains
• GPA computation
• Ratio solving
• Average / median / mode

The web calculators are designed for the homework questions students Google daily.

Exam-day calculator checklist

• Fresh batteries
• Approved model for your board
• Clear memory before walking in (most boards require this)
• Spare calculator if you have one

Forgetting your calculator is the most expensive mistake on exam day.