New SAT Math - Calculator

This subject covers the use of a calculator to solve mathematical problems on the New SAT, enhancing students' problem-solving skills and efficiency.

Calculator Basics on the SATEfficient Arithmetic and Order of OperationsFractions, Decimals, and Conversions
Solving Equations and SystemsGraphing Functions and Analyzing GraphsWorking with Statistics and Data
Solving Finance and Shopping ProblemsGeometry and Measurement ApplicationsTime, Distance, and Rate Problems
When to Use Your CalculatorAvoiding Common Calculator PitfallsDouble-Checking and Estimating
Calculator Basics on...Efficient Arithmetic...Fractions, Decimals,...Solving Equations an...Graphing Functions a...Working with Statist...Solving Finance and ...Geometry and Measure...Time, Distance, and ...When to Use Your Cal...Avoiding Common Calc...Double-Checking and ...
Basic Concepts

Efficient Arithmetic and Order of Operations

Speeding Up Arithmetic

Calculators can help you quickly solve arithmetic problems that might take too long by hand, but only if you enter expressions correctly.

Using Parentheses

When working with multi-step problems, grouping terms properly with parentheses ensures that your calculator follows the correct order of operations (PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction).

Tips for Fast Calculations

  • Enter entire expressions at once, using parentheses.
  • Use the memory function to store intermediate results.
  • Double-check entries for typos.

Real-World Skill

Accurate, efficient calculation is essential in jobs like engineering, science, and finance, where mistakes can be costly.

Examples

  • Evaluating \( (6 + 3) \times 4 \) by entering the entire expression with parentheses.

  • Calculating \( (12 - 5)^2 \) by using the exponent key after subtracting.

In a Nutshell

Mastering parentheses and calculator memory makes solving SAT arithmetic much faster and more reliable.

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Fractions, Decimals, and Conversions