Hey, I'm kinda lost here. Which calculators are allowed for the SAT? I've got this Texas Instruments model, will that work? I just want to be sure I'm going into the test prepared.
Sure, I can help with that. The College Board has clear guidelines on which calculators are permitted. While they permit most graphing calculators, scientific calculators, and four-function calculators, they prohibit laptops or other computers, tablets, cell phones, calculators with a QWERTY keyboard, calculators that use a stylus, and models that can access the Internet, make noise or have a paper tape.
Many calculators from Texas Instruments family are allowed, including all the TI-83 and TI-84 models, and the TI-Nspire (non-CAS versions). However, without knowing your exact calculator model, it is a bit hard to give a definitive answer, as Texas Instruments has a wide range of calculators and a few of them, including the TI-89 and TI-Nspire CAS models, are not allowed.
My recommendation is to check your specific calculator model against the College Board's list on their official website. Additionally, be aware that you need to be familiar with your calculator and understand how to input and solve problems with it. A more powerful calculator won't necessarily lead to higher scores—understanding the math concepts and the calculator you are using is much more important.
And remember, while the calculator can help on certain problems, don't over-rely on it. There're plenty of problems in the SAT Math section that can be solved more quickly without a calculator. Understanding when and how to use your calculator effectively is just as important as having an allowable one.
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