Are you preparing for the ACT or SAT? As you may already know, these standardized tests play a crucial role in your college admissions process and can greatly impact your future higher education opportunities. One tool that can help you achieve success on these tests is a calculator. While the ACT allows you to use any calculator, the SAT only permits the use of certain models. Therefore, it is essential to familiarize yourself with your calculator’s functions and master its usage before the test day. To help you out, we have compiled a list of six basic ACT/SAT calculator tips to give you an edge in achieving your higher education goals.

1. Practice With Your Calculator Beforehand

Using a calculator may seem like a no-brainer, but it is essential to familiarize yourself with its functions beforehand. Many students make the mistake of neglecting to practice with their calculators, assuming they already know how to use them. However, there may be advanced functions and shortcuts that you are unaware of, which can come in handy during the test. Take the time to experiment with your calculator and become familiar with its features to make the most out of it on test day.

2. Use Fractions and Parentheses Correctly

You may already be familiar with using parentheses to indicate priority in calculations. However, using parentheses correctly is crucial in the ACT or SAT. For instance, if you forget to close a set of parentheses, the calculator will assume that the parentheses extend to the end of the equation, leading to an incorrect answer. Additionally, many calculators have a fraction button that allows you to input a fraction as it appears in the question, rather than converting it into a decimal. This function can save you time and reduce the risk of making errors.

3. Master the Exponential Button

Many students struggle with the exponential function on their calculator, leading to errors in their answers. It is essential to know how to use this button correctly, especially for math and science sections of the ACT and SAT. To use this function, enter the base number, then press the exponential button (usually marked with an x^y or a carrot symbol) and enter the exponent to raise the base number to the desired power.

4. Understand How to Convert Between Degrees and Radians

Some questions on the ACT and SAT may require you to use trigonometric functions, which involve using angles in radians instead of degrees. Therefore, it is essential to understand how to convert between the two measurements on your calculator. Most calculators have a mode button that allows you to toggle between degrees and radians. Make sure to check and adjust your calculator’s mode before the test to avoid any mistakes.

5. Learn How to Solve Equations Using Your Calculator

Many students struggle with solving equations that involve multiple variables in the ACT and SAT. Luckily, most calculators come equipped with an equation-solving function that can help you solve these types of problems quickly and accurately. To use this feature, enter the equation into the calculator, then press the solve button to get the answer. However, remember that this function only provides one of the possible solutions, so make sure to double-check your work.

6. Don’t Rely on Your Calculator Too Much

While a calculator can be a useful tool, it is essential not to rely on it too much. Many math questions on the ACT and SAT do not require a calculator. Using a calculator may also increase the chances of making careless mistakes. Therefore, it is crucial to know when to use a calculator and when to work out the problem manually. This skill can help you save time and reduce errors on the test.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your calculator can be a valuable asset in achieving success on the ACT and SAT. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with its functions and use it correctly during the test to maximize its benefits. However, remember to also practice solving problems without a calculator and strategize when to use it. For further insights and tips on the ACT and SAT, we recommend using the TUN AI platform. Our AI-powered guidance can help you prepare for the test and provide personalized recommendations to improve your scores. Good luck on your higher education journey!