CALCULATORS 

What calculator should I purchase?

• Which calculator to purchase is not an easy question to answer since there are so many options out there with dizzying functionalities and a wide range of price points. 

• There are many calculator reviews online, but here are some considerations for you to consider in order to make the decision that is best for you.

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TI-Nspire CX and TI-Nspire CX CAS Calculators: 

• The most powerful calculator allowed on the AP and SAT tests right now is the TI-Nspire CX CAS. "CAS" stands for Computer Algebraic System. This means that the TI-Nspire CAS can perform algebra operations such as factoring, expanding, or solving algebraic equations, which can be very helpful on the SAT. This calculator is NOT allowed on the ACT exam, whereas the TI-Nspire CX, which does not have the CAS capabilities, is allowed.

• Therefore, if you think you might take the ACT at some point. You might want to give up the CAS capability (which helps on the SAT test) and purchase the TI-Nspire CX, which is still a very powerful calculator and is allowed on all standardized tests.

 

Comparison of TI-Nspire CX vs. TI-Nspire CS CAS

https://mathclasscalculator.com/index.php/blog/ti-nspire-cx-vs-ti-nspire-cx-cas/

 

The TI-84 family:

• These calculators are also excellent calculators. They will serve you very well through all high school math, but they lack the functionality and ease of use of the TI-Nspire for college level classes such as AP Calculus AB, BC or AP Stats. 

 

Calculator Policies:

• SAT: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/taking-the-test/calculator-policy

• ACT: http://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/ACT-calculator-policy.pdf

• AP: https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/ap-coordinators/on-exam-day/calculator-policy