I'm searching for a scientific calculator that will serve me well through high school and college, especially for math and science classes. What models do students recommend that have been really helpful?
While the actual calculator model you choose can indeed depend on personal preferences and the specific requirements of your courses, both high school and college level courses often recommend calculators from the Texas Instruments (TI) or Casio series.
A popular and frequently chosen model is the TI-84 Plus. This model has a variety of functions for both basic scientific calculations and more complex mathematical operations, which will be needed in advanced math or science classes. Plus, it has a user-friendly setup which makes it convenient, and its graphing abilities are very helpful for visualizing algebraic or trigonometric functions.
If you prefer a Casio calculator, the Casio fx-9750GII is a great choice. Just like the TI-84, it's a graphing calculator with a wide range of functions including algebra, calculus, and geometry. This calculator is also a bit cheaper than most TI calculators, so it may be a good option if you're budget-conscious.
However, before you purchase a calculator, double check with your high school or prospective college syllabi, as some courses will specify a certain type or model of calculator that's allowed. Additionally, keep in mind that some standardized exams (like the ACT since 2025) have specific calculator policies.
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