Calculator Cheat Sheet printable pdf download

Calculator Cheat Sheet

Common Issues

Not closing parenthesis at the end of a square root

o Parentheses are automatically opened with the square root function.

Students must close it if more operations follow the square root.

Subtract key versus negative key

o Subtract looks longer on screen

o Negative is shorter and raised on screen

If students receive ERROR, use the GO TO function. The calculator’s cursor goes

to the mistake.

o This is often a subtract/negative mistake

Improper use of parenthesis or not using parenthesis in order of operations

o Calculator follows order of operations that student types

With “mega fractions” (ex:

), students should calculate the numerator first,

then the denominator, and then divide. They should write down each step on

paper.

A variable will always show as X on the calculator. Students often try to use the

alpha keys to change it. The XTθN must be used when graphing a function.

Change the brightness with 2ND up arrow and 2ND down arrow

o A student will turn the screen black or white and the next student thinks the

calculator is broken or has dead batteries.

Fractions

TI-83+ or older

o Convert between fractions and decimals with the MATH key.

 FRAC or DEC

o Fractions must be typed as decimals or manually with parenthesis and the

division key. ( 4 / 3 )

TI-84+

o Convert between fractions and decimals with the MATH key.

 FRAC or DEC

o Type fractions as improper or mixed with the MATH key.

Storing a value for a variable

Students can store a value for a variable to check a solution to an equation or to

substitute a value.

Calculator Cheat Sheet