Calculator Guidelines
This page defines the different calculators types which may be allowed or forbidden on your exams. Each course policy will specify which levels are allowed.
Calculator lending
NC State Libraries calculator lending: Calculator Lending (opens in a new tab)
Basic (four-function)
Typical capabilities: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division; sometimes %, square root, memory keys.
Not included: trig, logs, exponentials, matrices, graphing, or programming.
Financial
Typical capabilities: time value of money (TVM), interest calculations, payments, amortization, cash flows.
Note: Some financial calculators are programmable; course policies may restrict that.
Scientific
A scientific calculator supports common mathematical functions used in algebra, trigonometry, and introductory calculus.
Typical capabilities:
- Trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan)
- Exponential and logarithmic functions
- Powers and roots
- Scientific notation
- Basic statistics (mean, standard deviation)
Important notes:
- Scientific calculators do not graph functions. If your calculator can create graphs, then it is not an acceptable scientific calculator.
- Some models include equation solvers, matrix features, or calculus capabilities; course policies may restrict these.
Common examples (non-exhaustive)
Graphing
A graphing calculator can plot functions and typically supports a wide range of numerical, graphical, and symbolic features.
Typical capabilities:
- Graphing functions and data
- Tables and numerical solvers
- Regression and statistics
- Programmability and installed apps
Important notes:
- Most graphing calculators are programmable.
- Some models include a Computer Algebra System (CAS) that performs symbolic algebra.
- CAS functionality is often explicitly prohibited unless stated otherwise.
Common examples (non-exhaustive)
