PERT Calculator Policy Checker
Are you wondering if you are allowed to use calculators on the PERT exam? Use this simple checker to understand the official policy for each section of the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT).
Check Calculator Allowance
Personal Calculator Allowed?
Not Allowed
On-Screen Calculator: Provided for some items
Guidance: You are NOT allowed to bring your own handheld calculator. An on-screen calculator is provided by the testing system for CERTAIN mathematics questions.
What are Calculators on the PERT?
When discussing “calculators on the PERT,” we are referring to the policies regarding the use of any calculating devices during the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) administered in Florida. The PERT assesses readiness for college-level coursework in Mathematics, Reading, and Writing. The key question students have is whether they are allowed to use calculators on the PERT, and if so, what kind.
The official policy is strict: you are NOT allowed to bring or use your own handheld calculator for any section of the PERT. However, for a portion of the Mathematics section, an on-screen calculator is provided within the testing software. You cannot use your own, even if it’s a basic one. Understanding this rule is crucial for test preparation.
Who Should Know This Policy?
Anyone preparing to take the PERT, including high school students, adult learners, and guidance counselors, must be aware of the calculator policy to avoid issues on test day and to prepare appropriately using the available tools.
Common Misconceptions
A common misconception is that students can bring a basic four-function or scientific calculator. This is incorrect. No external calculators are permitted. Another is that the on-screen calculator is available for all math questions; it is only available for specific items where calculator use is deemed appropriate.
PERT Calculator Policy and Explanation
The policy regarding calculators on the PERT is straightforward:
- Personal Handheld Calculators: Strictly prohibited in all sections (Mathematics, Reading, Writing).
- On-Screen Calculator: Provided by the testing system for *some* questions within the Mathematics section only. It is not available for the Reading or Writing sections, nor for all Mathematics questions.
The rationale behind this policy is to ensure a level playing field for all test-takers and to assess mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills, some of which are intended to be performed without calculator assistance. The on-screen calculator is typically a basic or scientific one, integrated into the test platform.
Summary Table of Calculator Rules
| PERT Section | Personal Handheld Calculator | On-Screen Calculator (Provided) |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Not Allowed | Provided for some items |
| Reading | Not Allowed | Not Provided |
| Writing | Not Allowed | Not Provided |
Summary of calculator allowance on the PERT.
Visual representation of calculator allowance on the PERT.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: Student Preparing for PERT Math
A student is preparing for the PERT Mathematics section. They are used to using their scientific calculator for homework. They need to understand that they cannot bring their calculator to the test. Instead, they should practice with the types of problems where a calculator might be provided on-screen and also practice solving problems without a calculator, as many questions will require this.
Example 2: During the PERT Math Test
While taking the PERT Mathematics section, a student encounters a complex arithmetic question. They notice the on-screen calculator icon is active for this question. They can click it to open the tool and perform the calculation. On the next question, the icon might be grayed out, meaning they must solve it without calculator aid.
How to Use This PERT Calculator Policy Checker
- Select the Section: Choose the PERT section (Mathematics, Reading, or Writing) you are inquiring about from the dropdown menu.
- View Results: The page immediately updates to show:
- Whether bringing a personal calculator is allowed (which is always “Not Allowed”).
- The availability of the on-screen calculator for the selected section.
- Specific guidance based on the official rules.
- Reset: Click “Reset” to return the selection to the default (Mathematics).
This checker helps you quickly understand the rules regarding calculators on the PERT before your test day.
Key Factors That Affect PERT Calculator Policy
- Test Integrity: Prohibiting personal calculators prevents the use of devices with stored formulas or information, ensuring a fair test.
- Assessment Goals: Some math questions are designed to assess mental math, estimation, and non-calculator problem-solving skills.
- Equal Opportunity: Providing a standardized on-screen calculator ensures all students have access to the same tool when permitted.
- Test Security: It reduces the risk of prohibited devices entering the testing environment.
- Section Content: Calculators are irrelevant for the Reading and Writing sections, hence not provided.
- Question Design: Within Math, only questions deemed calculator-appropriate will have the on-screen tool enabled.
These factors ensure that the PERT accurately measures a student’s readiness for college-level courses, particularly concerning whether they can use calculators on the PERT.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. Are we allowed to use calculators on the PERT at all?
- You are NOT allowed to bring your own calculator. An on-screen calculator IS provided for some Mathematics questions.
- 2. Can I use my own simple 4-function calculator on the PERT?
- No, no personal calculators of any kind are permitted.
- 3. Is the on-screen calculator available for all PERT Math questions?
- No, it’s only available for specific questions within the Mathematics section where the test developers deem it appropriate.
- 4. What type of calculator is the on-screen one?
- The on-screen calculator is typically a basic or scientific calculator provided within the testing software.
- 5. Are calculators allowed on the PERT Reading or Writing sections?
- No, calculators (neither personal nor on-screen) are relevant or allowed for the Reading and Writing sections.
- 6. What happens if I bring a calculator to the PERT test center?
- You will not be allowed to take it into the testing room. It’s best to leave it at home or in your car.
- 7. How should I prepare for the PERT Math section regarding calculator use?
- Practice solving math problems both with and without a calculator. Familiarize yourself with the likely functions of a standard on-screen calculator. Focus on fundamentals as many questions will not allow calculator use.
- 8. Does the PERT calculator policy change?
- While the current policy is clear, it’s always good to check the official Florida Department of Education or your testing center’s website for the most up-to-date rules before your test regarding calculators on the PERT.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
- PERT Math Practice Test – Prepare for the math section with practice questions, some allowing an on-screen calculator like the real test.
- PERT Reading Guide – Learn strategies for the reading comprehension section of the PERT.
- PERT Writing Tips – Improve your skills for the writing section, where no calculators are involved.
- About the PERT Test – Get a general overview of the PERT exam structure and purpose.
- Understanding PERT Test Scores – Learn how the PERT is scored and what the scores mean.
- Official PERT Study Guide – Access resources and study materials to prepare for all sections of the PERT.
Understanding the rules for calculators on the PERT is a small but important part of your preparation.