Choosing a Scientific and Graphing Calculators

The need for a scientific calculator is inevitable at some point in high school and college. Scientific calculators assist with logarithms, functions, equations and scientific formulas. Students are allowed to use them on standardized tests, including the SAT and ACT.

The variety of calculators and prices can be confusing and overwhelming. Below are a few things to consider before sinking too much, or too little money into a scientific calculator.

Which calculator does the teacher required or recommended?

This information should be available on the class syllabus, or on-line. However, before purchasing a calculator realize the teacher may recommend a specific brand and model because that is the one with which he is most familiar. This enables the teacher to give one quick lesson teaching students how to use their calculators. They then expect the students to be able to use their calculator on their own.

You may be able to find a calculator with the same functions, at a better price. Texas Instruments has long set the standard for scientific calculators. There are other reliable brands that cost less. If you choose another calculator take time to assist your child in learning how the calculator functions. Work through the user's manual and you can usually figure out all of the functions your student will need to use. If not, contact technical support.

What other classes require a scientific calculator?

Don't lose money in the long run by having to purchase another calculator next year. Look ahead to classes that your child will be taking throughout high school and in college. If chemistry, physics, calculus, or statistics are on the horizon, find out the scientific calculator requirements for those classes now. Buy now for functions that will be needed in the future.

If you have a burgeoning research scientist, pharmacy major or medical professional in your home, then perhaps you should consider putting a little more money into a calculator that has the capability of performing complex functions.