As you prepare to take the ACT, you’re likely wondering if a calculator is allowed at all, and if so, which one is best suited for the task. The answer is yes – a calculator can be your best friend on the test, but not just any calculator will do. To get the most out of your ACT prep, you need a calculator that’s specifically designed for the test, and that’s where the Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE emulator comes in.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to master the ACT with a calculator, including the best ways to use it to your advantage on the test. We’ll also explore the benefits of a browser-based emulator like the TI-84 Plus CE, and provide you with expert tips and strategies for using a calculator for ACT.

Why a Calculator is Allowed on the ACT (and How to Use It Strategically)

The ACT allows test-takers to use an approved calculator during the math portion of the test. This may seem counterintuitive – after all, isn’t the goal of the test to assess your ability to do math without a calculator? But the truth is, calculators can be a valuable tool for helping you to problem-solve and make calculations more quickly and accurately.

According to a survey by the ACT, students who use a calculator on the test tend to perform better than those who don’t. This is because a calculator can help you to identify patterns and relationships in math problems, and can perform calculations that might be difficult or time-consuming to do by hand.

So, how can you use a calculator strategically on the ACT? Here are a few tips:

Use your calculator to check your work One of the most common mistakes test-takers make is to rush through a problem without double-checking their work. By using your calculator to verify your answers, you can ensure that you’re getting the correct solution.

Use your calculator to simplify complex problems Many ACT math problems require you to simplify complex expressions or equations. By using your calculator to perform these calculations, you can save time and reduce the risk of error.

Use your calculator to identify patterns As mentioned earlier, a calculator can be a powerful tool for identifying patterns and relationships in math problems. By using your calculator to explore different scenarios and outcomes, you can develop a deeper understanding of the underlying math concepts.

The Benefits of the TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE Emulators

So, which calculator is best suited for the ACT? The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE emulators are excellent choices for several reasons.

First and foremost, both the TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE are designed specifically for math and science students. They come with a range of built-in mathematical functions and formulas, making them ideal for use on the ACT.

The TI-84 Plus CE emulator is particularly useful because it’s a browser-based emulator, which means you can access it from any device with an internet connection. This makes it easy to practice and prepare for the test from anywhere, at any time.

Expert Tips and Strategies for Using a Calculator on the ACT

Using a calculator on the ACT requires a combination of strategy and skill. Here are a few expert tips to help you get the most out of your calculator on test day:

 Familiarize yourself with the calculator’s functions and features before the test. This will help you to navigate the calculator quickly and efficiently during the test.

 Make sure you have a clear understanding of the calculator’s strengths and limitations. For example, the TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE emulators are excellent for math and science problems, but may not be as effective for word problems or other types of questions.

 Use your calculator to check your work and identify patterns, as mentioned earlier. This can help you to save time and reduce the risk of error on test day.

 Practice using your calculator during timed practice tests to get a sense of how much time you need to spend on each question, and how to use your calculator most effectively.

Conclusion

Mastering the ACT with a calculator requires a combination of strategy, skill, and practice. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can get the most out of your calculator on test day and achieve your best score.

As you prepare to take the ACT, remember that a calculator is just one tool among many that you’ll need to succeed on the test. By combining your calculator with a range of other test-taking strategies and a solid understanding of the underlying math concepts, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goals.

So, what are you waiting for? Start practicing with the TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE emulators today, and watch your ACT scores soar.