How to Use a Scientific Calculator For Algebra

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Co-authored by JohnK Wright V

Last Updated: April 10, 2024

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Basic Operational Functions

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Common Functions for Algebra

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Q&A

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Tips

A scientific calculator provides functions that make common calculations easy. While each calculator is slightly different, every model has the basic functions needed for middle and high school math courses. Once you understand how to use its features, it will help you on your way towards mathematical success.

This article will use the TI-30X IIS calculator. Be sure to check the instruction manual for your calculator. Instructions for pressing buttons will be in $\mathrm {math}$ code.

Solving Algebra with a Scientific Calculator

You can use the basic operating symbols to perform basic operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. To create a fraction, use the division symbol. Find the square root by typing $\mathrm {2nd} \ x^{2}$ .

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Basic Operational Functions

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1
Use the basic operation symbols to perform basic operations. These operations include addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (×), and division (÷).
- You have to hit the equals (=) sign to complete a calculation using these symbols.
- Use these functions the same way you would on a basic calculator. For example, to find 12/4, enter $12\div 4=$ .
2
Change the order of operations using the parentheses keys. This will override the calculator’s order of operations.
- Hit the beginning parentheses before you hit your first number, and hit the ending parentheses after you hit your last number. The calculator will complete that calculation before you enter your next functions.
- If you need, you can also nest parentheses, though be sure that you can keep track of them.
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If you accidentally hit a wrong key, hit the $\mathrm {DEL}$ button. This will clear the last button you pressed, but will not clear any calculations you’ve made.
To clear the line, hit the $\mathrm {CLEAR}$ button. Chances are, you can scroll up to see past calculations. You can hit delete with each line to get rid of these.
5
Explore all the functions on the calculator. To use some functions, you might have to use the $\mathrm {2nd}$ ${\mathrm {2nd}}$ key. These functions are listed above the button, similar to how symbols are listed above the number keys on a keyboard. To use these functions, hit the 2nd key first. Getting the syntax right for some operations may involve switching the order between the operation and the number.
- For the TI-30X IIS, one of the 2nd functions is to turn off the calculator. Simply press $\mathrm {2nd} \ \mathrm {ON}$ .

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Common Functions for Algebra

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$Step 1 Make a fraction.$

1
Make a fraction. While there are buttons to do this, fractions are much easier to type in manually. The reason is that most scientific calculators only output in decimal format.
- For example, to evaluate 4/5 + 6/7, type in $4\div 5+6\div 7=$ to get approximately 1.657. Use parentheses for more complex operations.
- To convert back to fractions, use $\mathrm {2nd} \ \mathrm {PRB}$ to get the answer in mixed fractions.
2
Square a number. Do this using the $x^{2}$ $x^{{2}}$ button. Type in the number you want to square, then hit that button.
- For example, to square the number 12, type $12\ x^{2}=$ .
- To find powers of any number, use the $\wedge$ key. For example, type $3\wedge 5=$ to get 243.
3
Find a square root. Type $\mathrm {2nd} \ x^{2}$ ${\mathrm {2nd}}\ x^{{2}}$ to display the square root.
- To find the square root of 9, type $\mathrm {2nd} \ x^{2}\ 9=$ .
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Find logarithms. There are two buttons for logarithms. The $\mathrm {LOG}$ ${\mathrm {LOG}}$ is the logarithm base 10. Use whichever one is appropriate.
- For example, to find the logarithm base 10 of 100, simply type $\mathrm {LOG} \ 100=$ .
5
Use the exponential function. The exponential function $e^{x}$ $e^{{x}}$ is found by typing $\mathrm {2nd} \ \mathrm {LN}$ ${\mathrm {2nd}}\ {\mathrm {LN}}$ . If you need to use Euler's number only, use e to the first power.
- For example, to find the natural log of e, type in $\mathrm {LN} \ \mathrm {2nd} \ \mathrm {LN} \ 1=$ .
6
Find trigonometric functions. Sine, cosine, and tangent come standard with any scientific calculator. To use these buttons, be sure that you know whether to use degrees or radians. To convert, use the $\mathrm {DRG}$ ${\mathrm {DRG}}$ button to highlight DEG or RAD. Other calculators will generally have a button that converts between these two systems.
- For example, if you wanted to find the sine of 60 degrees, make sure that you are in degree mode by checking the lower right of the display. Then, type $\mathrm {SIN} \ 60=$ .
7
Find the reciprocal of a number. Do this using the $x^{-1}$ $x^{{-1}}$ button. On some calculators, it may be labeled as $1/x$ $1/x$ instead. Type in the number you want to find the reciprocal of, then hit the reciprocal button.
- For example, to find the reciprocal of 3, type $3\ x^{-1}=$ .

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How do I make 7/3 on a calculator?

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Fractions mean division. Type in 7÷3.

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How do I calculate 2 to the 64th power?

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Press the "2" button, then the "xʸ" (the y is above the x on a calculator) button. Then type in "64".

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How do I do brackets on the calculator?

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You can't, but I'm sure parentheses will work fine in place of square/curly brackets. Brackets are used by some people because the expression has groups in groups (e.g. 1+[4(2+1)+3]).

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Tips

Remember that you are responsible for converting the answer after the calculator does its job. It is much more useful to have those skills than to be skilled at using a particular model.

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The TI-30X IIS is pretty loose with closing parentheses for operations. For example, you do not need to close the parentheses when evaluating logarithms or trig functions.

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When choosing a scientific calculator, consider what math classes besides algebra you'll be using it for. You should choose a calculator that will take you through several years of the math classes you anticipate taking. In recent years, it is more beneficial to use a graphing calculator for more advanced courses, like calculus.

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