How to Use the GRE Calculator

The display shows the current number or result, not a visible history of every operator and parenthesis. Enter expressions deliberately. Use parentheses when precedence matters and clear an entry immediately when the display no longer matches your intended sequence.

M+ places the displayed value into memory or adds it to the current memory total. MR recalls it; MC clears it. This is useful for a denominator, running total, or common subtotal, but paper is safer when multiple intermediate values must stay labeled.

Use it for awkward multiplication or division, decimals, square roots, and verifying a correctly built expression. It can be especially helpful in data interpretation after you have written the correct ratio or percent-change base.

Simple arithmetic, factor relationships, exact fractions, comparison questions, and algebraic simplification are often faster without it. ETS specifically advises using the calculator for tedious computation rather than because it is available.

Practice percent change, a weighted mean, a long division, an expression with nested grouping, and a memory-key calculation. For each drill, write an estimate first and decide afterward whether the calculator saved time.

Enter grouped relationships exactly as written. For example, an average of three values requires the total divided by three, so the sum must be completed before division. Parentheses are safer than relying on a remembered sequence when the expression contains several operations.

Because the display does not preserve a full visible expression history, break very long calculations into labeled steps on scratch paper. Store one reusable number in memory only when that simplifies the work; otherwise the memory state becomes another source of error.

Keep exact fractions when the question asks for an exact ratio or when cancellation makes arithmetic simpler. If a decimal is necessary, carry enough digits until the final step and follow the requested rounding instruction. Do not round each intermediate value independently.

Numeric Entry questions can specify an integer, decimal, or fraction format. A correct display still needs to be translated into the required response. For multiple-choice questions, an estimate may be sufficient to identify the only plausible option without completing a precise calculation.