Information on different graphing calculators – how do they work?

By: Jason Petrina



Calculators are an indispensable tool for any student who is taking math classes. They are the equivalent of having your own personal computer to assist you with difficult homework, either at home or in school. They are used in all sorts of mathematical procedures and can be useful in math, chemistry or physics classes. Let’s see how graphing calculators work and what’s the most efficient way to use them.

When you enter a function in the calculator it will start simplifying it. Then you have to input a function and the graphing calculator will plot it over the range that you specify. This makes all functions related math problems become a lot easier and the results come to you much faster. When inputting variables; for example, you should usually use an “x” as the independent variable – a standard with all functions. Brackets and parentheses are usually used to group certain terms and elements of the function. They are used in regular equations and are easily accessible from the graphing calculator’s keyboard.

Another important function of graphing calculators is working with exponents. They are supported on variables and you can use them by inputting the caret symbol (^). In most graphing calculators, including those found for free online, you can write an x4 like this: x^4. If you are getting errors when trying to place exponents, please note that they must be positive integers. So you are not allowed to use this function on variables or decimals, or on negative numbers.

Subtractions and additions also become a lot faster and more accessible. Use the “+” and “-” classic keys to perform either a subtraction or an addition. The “*” symbol should be used for multiplications. You can multiply a number by a variable without using the “*” symbol, as most graphing calculators understand this function without other input from the user. Some graphing calculator support features such as divisions, radicals and roots, while other calculators do not offer these.

You can find many graphing calculators at computer stores or at stationary supply stores. I highly recommend you buying graphing calculators during the back-to-school sale, they are usually on sale opposed to during the school year. I suggest shopping around at different stores to compare the prices, one retail store may sell a graphing calculator for less. Looking online for a graphing calculator is not a bad idea, the internet is a great place to do some research. Check out the broad range of graphing calculator brands and what each model offers. Sometimes, you may even come across cheaper prices online!

Even though there are several manufacturers who offer graphing calculators (and a few hundred websites offering virtual ones as well), there are some elements that are common to all of them. Most of the above mentioned characteristics and functions are present with all good graphing calculators, The order of operations is also the standard one, as it appears in all algebra manuals. If you are shopping for a graphing calculator make sure that it has all the necessary functions that your kid will need in school. However, please be careful when purchasing the item – some dealers will sell you calculators that are more advanced than what you actually need. Make sure to know the exact functions that you’ll need and do not spend more then necessary on an advanced graphing calculator.



Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com