Can You Use a Calculator on the GRE? Everything You Need to Know

If you're preparing for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), you've probably wondered: Can I use a calculator on the GRE? The short answer is yes, but with limitations. Unlike other standardized tests, the GRE allows the use of a calculator, but not just any calculator. This distinction can have a significant impact on how you approach the exam. In this article, we'll explore the specifics of calculator use on the GRE, including the type of calculator allowed, how it works, and some essential tips to maximize its benefits.

1. Can you use a calculator on the GRE?

Yes, you can use a calculator on the GRE, but it is not the physical, handheld type you may be used to. Instead, the GRE provides an on-screen calculator for the Quantitative Reasoning section. This calculator is built into the testing software and is only accessible during the quantitative portion of the exam. This is an important distinction, as it means you cannot bring your own calculator to the test center.

The reason for this controlled access is to ensure a standardized testing experience for all candidates and to prevent any possible misuse of personal devices.

2. What type of calculator is available on the GRE?

The calculator provided on the GRE is a basic on-screen four-function calculator. It is similar to the simple calculators you might have seen on older mobile phones or basic desktop applications. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

• Functions available: Addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (×), and division (÷).

• Square root function (√): The calculator includes a square root button, which is crucial for certain quantitative questions.

• Memory functions: You can store a value and recall it later, which can be useful for multi-step calculations.

• Clear button (C): Allows you to clear the current input.

• Simple interface: It does not have scientific calculator features like trigonometric functions, logarithms, or exponents.

While this GRE calculator is sufficient for most GRE quantitative questions, it's not designed for advanced mathematical calculations. However, since the GRE focuses on problem-solving and reasoning, you rarely need scientific calculator functions to solve questions.

3. Why doesn’t the GRE allow physical calculators?

Allowing physical calculators would create an uneven playing field. Some test-takers might bring advanced graphing calculators, while others might only have access to basic models. By providing a simple, on-screen calculator, ETS (the organization that administers the GRE) ensures that all test-takers have access to the same tools, maintaining fairness and consistency.

Another reason is that the GRE isn't necessarily testing your ability to compute large numbers. Instead, it focuses on logical reasoning, conceptual understanding, and problem-solving. The on-screen calculator is there to support basic computations but not to do all the work for you.

4. When should you use the on-screen calculator?

While having a calculator might seem like a blessing, overusing it can be a mistake. Since the GRE is a timed exam, excessive reliance on the calculator can slow you down. Knowing when to use the calculator and when to solve questions manually is a crucial part of test strategy.

Here are some scenarios where using the calculator is helpful:

• Large or awkward calculations: If the numbers are too large or decimals are involved, it’s faster to use the calculator than to do it manually.

• Square roots and divisions: Since square roots are difficult to compute by hand, the square root button on the calculator can save you time.

• Accuracy checks: If you solve a question manually but want to confirm your answer, the calculator can be a useful double-checking tool.

However, there are also situations where you should avoid using the calculator. Simple calculations like adding, subtracting, or multiplying small numbers can be done mentally or on scratch paper, which is often faster than clicking buttons on the screen.

5. How to use the GRE on-screen calculator effectively

To make the most of the on-screen calculator, follow these tips:

1. Get Familiar with It Before the Test
You can practice using a similar on-screen calculator while studying. ETS provides a PowerPrep software that mimics the testing environment, including the calculator. Getting used to this interface will help you avoid wasting time figuring out how to use it on test day.

2. Use Memory Functions to Your Advantage
The on-screen calculator has memory functions (M+, M-, MR, MC), which can help you store numbers for multi-step calculations. Learn how to use these buttons effectively, as they can reduce the number of times you have to retype the same number.

3. Avoid Over-Reliance
While it may seem convenient, typing simple calculations (like 12 + 7) into the calculator is a waste of time. For basic arithmetic, do the math in your head or on your scratch paper.

4. Double-Check Your Work
If you’re calculating large numbers or multi-step problems, it's a good idea to double-check your inputs. A small error in typing can lead to incorrect answers, and the GRE does not give partial credit.

5. Manage Your Time Wisely
Using the calculator takes time, and on a timed test like the GRE, every second counts. Try to strike a balance between manual computation and calculator use to optimize your efficiency.

6. Common mistakes to avoid when using the GRE calculator

1. Misclicking Buttons
Since the calculator is on-screen, you’ll be using a mouse to click the buttons. This process is slower than typing on a physical calculator. Be sure to click the correct buttons to avoid input errors.

2. Forgetting to Clear Previous Entries
If you don’t clear previous entries, the calculator may carry over previous numbers, leading to incorrect calculations. Get in the habit of pressing "C" before starting a new calculation.

3. Wasting Time on Simple Math
Many GRE test-takers overuse the calculator, even for basic addition or subtraction. This is a waste of time. You can often solve simple problems faster with mental math or scratch paper.

4. Not Using Memory Functions
If you’re doing a multi-step calculation, the memory buttons (M+, M-, MR, MC) are valuable tools. Learn how to use them effectively to avoid re-entering numbers.

7. Do all GRE test-takers have access to the calculator?

Yes, regardless of whether you take the GRE at a testing center or online at home, you will have access to the on-screen calculator. If you’re taking the test at home via the GRE at Home option, the calculator appears as part of the software interface. The calculator is the same for all test-takers, maintaining consistency across testing environments.

8. Is the calculator enough to solve all GRE math questions?

No, the on-screen calculator alone isn’t sufficient to solve every question. The GRE isn't just a "math test"; it’s a reasoning test. While the calculator can help with basic computations, most GRE quantitative questions require logical thinking, problem-solving, and pattern recognition.

For example, data interpretation questions often involve identifying trends, comparing values, and making inferences. While the calculator can help with specific calculations, it won't give you insight into the logic required to solve the problem.

9. Practice problems to improve calculator efficiency

To get comfortable using the on-screen calculator, consider these practice problems:

1. Calculate √225 using the on-screen calculator.

2. Multiply 124 by 87.

3. Divide 9876 by 12.

You can practice similar problems to become more efficient. Remember, the faster you are with the calculator, the more time you’ll have for reasoning and logic.

10. Final thoughts on using a calculator on the GRE

Yes, you can use a calculator on the GRE, but it’s not the traditional calculator you may have used in school. The on-screen calculator is a basic, four-function tool designed to assist with simple calculations, not to solve every problem for you. To succeed on the GRE, you’ll need to know when to use the calculator and when to rely on logic and problem-solving skills.

By practicing with the on-screen calculator before test day and mastering its memory functions, you can avoid time-wasting errors and work more efficiently. Remember that your conceptual understanding of quantitative reasoning is more critical than your ability to press buttons. If you approach the GRE with this strategy in mind, you'll be well-prepared to handle any calculation the test throws at you.