0580

Using a Calculator

Number

Before starting

  • The angle unit must be set to degrees, since this specification works in degrees throughout
  • Most calculators show a small D on the display when degrees are selected
  • A mode that displays fractions and roots in their exact form is preferable, because it keeps answers exact until the moment a decimal is wanted
  • A key marked S⇔D, or similar, switches a displayed answer between its exact and decimal forms
The upper keypad of a scientific calculator with the keys used most in this course picked out in red: the fraction key, the root key, square and general power keys, the cube key and the reciprocal key, alongside the sin, cos, tan and S to D keys
Source: Using a calculator by Save My Exams
  • Resetting the calculator before the exam restores every default and clears any setting changed for another subject