Here’s a common question for the quantitative section of the GRE: “Can I use a calculator during the test?” Why, Yes! But, don’t make the mistake of thinking access to a calculator is a gift. In reality, if not approached with moderation, it can hurt rather than help. In this article, we will shed light on the calculator’s role, and offer best practices for its use.
Calculator? Yes! But…
Yes, the GRE does provide a simple, on-screen calculator during the quantitative section, but its functionality is limited compared to traditional hand-held calculators. It can do about as much as the most basic calculator apps you find on cell phones.
Speed vs. Accuracy: A Balancing Act
It is crucial to know that not every problem on GRE quant requires a calculator. In fact, over-reliance on it, especially for easier problems, can impede your progress. While calculator use can be helpful for problems that require you to work with larger numbers, multiple steps, or decimals and percents, it’s important to remember that it is not an automatic ticket to the correct answer. It won’t necessarily solve complex problems faster than logic or intuition. Furthermore, the on-screen calculator interface is not intuitive, and the time you devote to using it could negatively impact your overall pacing. Thus, it can be helpful, but you have to find the right balance between speed and accuracy.
Math or problem-solving?
When it comes to the GRE, the challenge is not really the math itself. Rather, the challenge is how we approach and solve the problems. Believe it or not, many test-takers actually find that they don’t need a calculator for a lot of the questions. How can that be 🤔? Here’s a fun fact: The test makers know that time is short; therefore, if a question seems to require a bunch of complicated calculations, look to the answers. The answers often provide shortcuts to the solution–some value options are just way too big or small and can be eliminated immediately or after working a couple steps of the problem. Relying on the power of the process of elimination (POE), is very likely a faster, calculator-free way to get to the correct answer.
Calculator strategy
- Complex calculations: Save the calculator as a last resort for tough calculations.
- Problem-solve first: If the question seems especially complex, look to the answers and recall what simple rules may apply.
- Mental math: For simple calculations practice mental math so the potentially awkward interface doesn’t slow you down.
- Practice makes perfect: Still think you need the calculator? Practice before test day, so you can quickly recognize when you’ll need the calculator and also know its functions to save precious test time.
The GRE lets you use an on-screen calculator, but it’s all about how and when you use it. It’s a handy tool, but don’t let it slow you down. Balance your problem-solving skills, mental math, and calculator use for a great GRE quant score. Remember, it’s about picking the right approach for each question. Once you can do that with confidence, you’ll greatly increase your chances on the GRE.
Conclusion
Consider how you will implement calculator use on the GRE Quantitative section as an essential part of your overall test prep. It can be an amazing time saver or suck, depending on how often reach for it. The only way to determine the right mix and improve your math skills so you don’t need the calculator as often is to practice as much as possible. To get you started, try out a full-length, free practice test from Magoosh that includes a detailed score report with a topic-by-topic breakdown of your performance.
Happy studying!
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