ACT Permitted Calculators Compliance Checker
Ensure your device meets official ACT guidelines for the mathematics test.
Most TI-Nspire CAS and HP-Prime models are prohibited due to CAS.
Devices with full typewriter-style keyboards are prohibited.
Calculators that can communicate with other devices are prohibited.
Calculators must be battery or solar powered during the test.
Pass
Pass
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Formula Logic: Compliance = (NOT CAS) AND (NOT QWERTY) AND (NOT WIRELESS) AND (NOT WALL-POWERED)
Compliance Score Visualization
This chart reflects how closely your input matches the act permitted calculators standards.
What are act permitted calculators?
Act permitted calculators refer to the specific electronic calculating devices allowed by ACT, Inc. for use during the Mathematics portion of the ACT test. Unlike other standardized tests, the ACT maintains a strict “prohibited” list rather than a “permitted” list, meaning most standard graphing and scientific calculators are allowed unless they possess specific forbidden features.
Students should use act permitted calculators to avoid disqualification. Using a prohibited device can lead to your test being voided and your scores cancelled. Common misconceptions suggest that if a calculator is allowed on the SAT, it must be an act permitted calculator as well; however, the ACT is more restrictive regarding Computer Algebra Systems (CAS).
act permitted calculators Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The determination of whether a device falls under act permitted calculators follows a boolean logic derivation. We define Compliance (C) as a binary state where 1 is permitted and 0 is prohibited.
The logical formula is:
C = (!CAS) ⋅ (!KQ) ⋅ (!W) ⋅ (!PE) ⋅ (!S)
| Variable | Meaning | Unit | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAS | Computer Algebra System | Binary (0/1) | 0 (No CAS) to 1 (Has CAS) |
| KQ | QWERTY Keyboard | Binary (0/1) | 0 (Standard) to 1 (Typewriter) |
| W | Wireless/Communication | Binary (0/1) | 0 (None) to 1 (Has Bluetooth/IR) |
| PE | External Power Source | Binary (0/1) | 0 (Battery) to 1 (Wall Plug) |
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: TI-84 Plus CE
A student brings a TI-84 Plus CE. Applying our act permitted calculators logic:
- CAS: No (0)
- QWERTY: No (0)
- Wireless: No (0)
- Power: Battery (0)
Result: 100% Permitted. This is one of the most popular act permitted calculators used today.
Example 2: TI-Nspire CX II CAS
A student brings the CAS version of the Nspire. Applying the logic:
- CAS: Yes (1)
- QWERTY: No (0)
- Wireless: No (0)
Result: 0% Permitted. Because the CAS variable is 1, the device is prohibited. Note: The non-CAS version of the Nspire *is* an act permitted calculator.
How to Use This act permitted calculators Calculator
- Identify your calculator model and check its physical features.
- Select ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ for the CAS functionality. If you see “CAS” printed on the front of the device, it is almost certainly prohibited.
- Check the keyboard. If it has a full alphabet in a typewriter layout, select ‘QWERTY’.
- Determine if the device has infrared or Bluetooth ports.
- Observe the result. If the status turns red, you must find an alternative from the list of act permitted calculators.
Key Factors That Affect act permitted calculators Results
- Algebraic Manipulation: Systems that can solve equations symbolically (CAS) are the primary reason for exclusion from act permitted calculators.
- Communication Ability: Any device that can transmit data via infrared, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi is banned to prevent cheating.
- Data Storage: While most graphing calculators store data, those with massive internal storage or removable memory cards (like SD cards) are scrutinized.
- Input Method: Typewriter-style keyboards (QWERTY) are prohibited because they facilitate easy note-taking and text storage.
- Power Logistics: For fairness, all act permitted calculators must be self-powered to avoid dependency on room outlets.
- Noise and Distraction: Calculators that make noise or have “paper tape” printing capabilities are strictly prohibited in the testing hall.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the TI-84 Plus an act permitted calculator?
Yes, all versions of the TI-84 Plus, including the Silver Edition and CE, are allowed as they do not have CAS.
Can I use a calculator with a touch screen?
Yes, touch screens are generally allowed as long as the device doesn’t have other prohibited features like CAS or a QWERTY keyboard.
What about the TI-Nspire?
The TI-Nspire (non-CAS) is an act permitted calculator. The TI-Nspire CAS and TI-Nspire CX CAS are NOT allowed.
Are scientific calculators always allowed?
Generally yes, but they still must be battery-powered and not have a QWERTY keyboard.
Can I bring two act permitted calculators?
Yes, you may bring a backup, but only one may be on your desk at a time.
Do I have to clear my memory before the test?
The ACT policy does not explicitly require clearing memory, but proctors may ask you to show that certain programs are not active.
Is the HP Prime permitted?
No, the HP Prime is prohibited because it contains CAS functionality.
Are phone apps considered act permitted calculators?
Absolutely not. No phones, tablets, or laptop-based calculators are allowed in the testing room.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
- SAT Calculator Policy vs ACT – Compare the differences in calculator rules between the two major tests.
- Graphing vs Scientific Calculators – Understanding which tool is better for your math score.
- Best act permitted calculators Review – A curated list of the top 5 models for the math section.
- How to Clear Calculator Memory – A guide for various models before exam day.
- Essential ACT Math Formulas – What you need to know since the calculator won’t do it all.
- Permitted Calculator Programs – What programs are safe to use on your act permitted calculators.