Act Calculator Use

Determine if your calculator is likely permitted for use on the ACT exam based on its features and type. The official ACT calculator policy is the final authority.

ACT Calculator Use Checker

This checker uses the known ACT calculator policy rules. Prohibited features like CAS (on most models), QWERTY keyboards, wireless communication, or being part of a phone/tablet generally make a calculator disallowed. Always check the official ACT website for the most current policy and list of prohibited calculators.

What is ACT Calculator Use?

ACT calculator use refers to the set of rules and guidelines established by ACT, Inc. that dictate which calculators students are permitted to use, and how they can be used, during the ACT® test. The policy is primarily concerned with the Mathematics section of the ACT, as it’s the only section where calculators are allowed (and sometimes required for certain problems).

The main goal of the ACT calculator policy is to ensure fairness and test security. It prevents students from using devices that could give them an unfair advantage, such as those with computer algebra systems (CAS) that can solve algebraic equations symbolically, or those with communication capabilities.

Understanding ACT calculator use rules is crucial for any student planning to take the ACT. Using a prohibited calculator can lead to dismissal from the test center and cancellation of scores. Students should always check the latest official ACT calculator policy on the ACT website before test day.

Common misconceptions include believing all graphing calculators are allowed (some with CAS are not), or that any scientific calculator is fine (those with QWERTY keyboards or wireless features are banned). It’s vital to check your specific model and its features against the current policy.

ACT Calculator Policy Explained

The ACT calculator policy outlines which calculators are permitted and which are expressly prohibited. Here’s a breakdown:

Permitted Calculators:

• Most four-function calculators: These are allowed but not recommended due to limited functionality.
• Most scientific calculators: Standard scientific calculators are generally allowed as long as they don’t have prohibited features.
• Most graphing calculators: Many graphing calculators (like the TI-83, TI-84 series) are permitted, provided they are not on the prohibited list and don’t have CAS functionality or other banned features.

Even with permitted calculators, you cannot share them, and they must be used only during the Mathematics test.

Prohibited Calculators and Features:

• Calculators that are part of cell phones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, or other electronic communication devices.
• Calculators with QWERTY (typewriter-like) keyboards.
• Calculators that use a stylus or pen-input (with very few specific exceptions listed by ACT).
• Calculators that can communicate wirelessly (Bluetooth, infrared, etc.).
• Calculators that make noise or have a paper tape.
• Calculators that need an external power source (plug into an outlet).
• Calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS), with very few exceptions explicitly allowed by ACT (e.g., TI-Nspire non-CAS is okay, TI-Nspire CAS is not). Models like the TI-89 and TI-92 are prohibited due to CAS.

The ACT provides a list of specific calculator models that are prohibited, but the rules above apply even if a model isn’t explicitly listed. If your calculator has any of the prohibited features, it’s not allowed.

Variables Table for Policy Understanding

Feature/Type	Meaning	Status	Typical Examples
Four-function	Basic arithmetic operations	Permitted (but limited)	Basic desktop calculators
Scientific	Trig, logs, exponents	Generally Permitted	TI-30X IIS, Casio fx-115ES PLUS
Graphing	Graphs functions	Generally Permitted (without CAS)	TI-84 Plus, Casio fx-9750GII
CAS	Computer Algebra System	Prohibited (most models)	TI-Nspire CAS, TI-89, HP Prime
QWERTY Keyboard	Typewriter-style keyboard	Prohibited	Some older Casio models
Wireless	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, IR	Prohibited	N/A on standard calculators
Phone/Watch/Tablet	Integrated into other devices	Prohibited	Calculator apps

Summary of calculator types/features and their ACT permissibility. Always refer to the official ACT policy for the most up-to-date information.

Practical Examples of ACT Calculator Use

Example 1: Student with a TI-84 Plus CE

A student brings a Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE to the test. This is a graphing calculator without CAS. It does not have a QWERTY keyboard, wireless capabilities, or other prohibited features.

Result: This calculator is PERMITTED for ACT calculator use on the Math section.

Example 2: Student with a TI-Nspire CX CAS

Another student has a Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX CAS. The “CAS” indicates it has a Computer Algebra System.

Result: This calculator is PROHIBITED because of the CAS feature, according to the standard ACT calculator use policy.

Example 3: Student with a Casio fx-115ES PLUS

A student uses a Casio fx-115ES PLUS, which is a scientific calculator. It has no graphing, no CAS, no QWERTY, and no wireless features.

Result: This calculator is PERMITTED for ACT calculator use.

How to Use This ACT Calculator Use Checker

This tool helps you quickly assess if your calculator is likely permitted on the ACT:

1. Enter Model (Optional): Type your calculator’s model name for your reference.
2. Select Type: Choose the general type of your calculator (Four-function, Scientific, Graphing, or Other).
3. Check Features: Carefully check the boxes for any features your calculator possesses, especially those listed as potentially prohibited (CAS, QWERTY, Wireless, etc.).
4. Check Results: The “Permissibility” section will update to show whether your calculator is likely “Permitted,” “Prohibited,” or if you need to “Check Carefully” based on the features you selected. The “Reason” will give more detail.
5. Read Details: Note the allowed sections and any prohibited features detected.
6. Reset: Use the “Reset” button to clear the inputs and start over.
7. Copy Results: Use “Copy Results” to copy the findings for your records.

Decision-Making: If the checker indicates “Prohibited” or “Check Carefully,” you should visit the official ACT website or contact ACT to confirm before test day. It’s always better to be sure and have a backup permitted calculator if yours is questionable.

Key Factors That Affect ACT Calculator Use Permissibility

Several factors determine whether a calculator is allowed for ACT calculator use:

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is a major factor. Most calculators with CAS are banned because they can perform symbolic algebra and calculus, which goes beyond the scope of what the ACT intends to test via calculator use.
• QWERTY Keyboard: Calculators with typewriter-like keyboards are prohibited to prevent storage of text or formulas that could give an unfair advantage.
• Communication Capabilities: Any calculator that can communicate wirelessly (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared) is banned to maintain test security and prevent cheating.
• Integration with Other Devices: Calculators that are part of phones, smartwatches, tablets, or laptops are not allowed.
• Power Source: Calculators needing an external power outlet are prohibited. They must be battery-operated.
• Noise and Output: Calculators that make noise or have a paper tape are not permitted as they can be disruptive.
• Official ACT Prohibited List: The ACT maintains a list of specific calculator models that are banned, even if they don’t seem to violate the general rules. Always check this list.

Understanding these factors is key to ensuring your calculator complies with ACT calculator use rules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about ACT Calculator Use

1. Where can I find the official ACT calculator policy?

You can find the most current and official ACT calculator policy on the ACT’s official website.

2. Is the TI-84 Plus allowed on the ACT?

Yes, the TI-84 Plus (including Plus C Silver Edition, Plus CE, etc.) is generally allowed as it does not have CAS. The ACT math section is where you’d use it.

3. Are CAS calculators ever allowed?

Very rarely. While the general rule prohibits CAS, ACT has occasionally made exceptions for specific models with CAS if the CAS functionality can be disabled in a verifiable way for the test. However, it’s safer to assume CAS calculators are prohibited unless the ACT website explicitly allows your model under specific conditions.

4. What if I’m not sure if my calculator is allowed?

If you are unsure, it is best to bring a more basic, clearly permitted calculator (like a standard scientific or a non-CAS TI-84) or contact ACT directly well before the test day. Refer to our guide on choosing a calculator for tests.

5. Can I use the calculator on my phone?

No, calculators on cell phones, smartphones, tablets, or any other general-purpose electronic devices are strictly prohibited.

6. Do I have to clear my calculator’s memory?

While ACT doesn’t explicitly require clearing memory of approved calculators before the test, proctors may inspect calculators, and having stored programs or notes could be grounds for dismissal. It’s safest to clear memory or at least ensure no prohibited content is stored. Familiarize yourself with the test day checklist.

7. What happens if I use a prohibited calculator?

If you are caught using a prohibited calculator during the ACT, you will likely be dismissed from the test center, your scores will be canceled, and you may be barred from future testing.

8. Can I bring a backup calculator?

Yes, you are allowed to bring a backup calculator, but it must also be a permitted type. Both your primary and backup calculators must adhere to the ACT calculator use policy.

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