Can You Use A Graphing Calculator On The Psat

Determine if your calculator is permitted on the PSAT/NMSQT Math – Calculator section based on the official College Board guidelines.

PSAT Calculator Allowance Checker

What is the Policy on Whether You Can Use a Graphing Calculator on the PSAT?

The question, “can you use a graphing calculator on the PSAT?”, is crucial for students preparing for the exam. The College Board, which administers the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10, has specific rules regarding calculator use. You are allowed to use a calculator on ONLY ONE of the two Math sections: the “Math Test – Calculator” section. The other section is the “Math Test – No Calculator” section, where no calculators are permitted.

However, even on the Math – Calculator section, not all calculators are allowed. While most graphing calculators are permitted, there are important restrictions. Prohibited features include QWERTY (keyboard-like) keypads, stylus or pen-input devices, wireless communication, internet access, and the need for an external power outlet. Calculators built into phones, tablets, or laptops are also strictly forbidden. Knowing if you can use a graphing calculator on the PSAT depends on your specific model and the section you’re taking.

Common misconceptions include thinking any calculator is fine for the calculator section or that the rules are the same as for classroom use. It’s vital to check the latest College Board SAT calculator policy as it closely mirrors the PSAT’s.

PSAT Calculator Rules Explained

There isn’t a mathematical formula to determine if you can use a graphing calculator on the PSAT, but rather a set of rules and guidelines provided by the College Board. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Permitted Section: Calculators are ONLY allowed on the “Math Test – Calculator” section.

2. Generally Permitted Calculators:

• Most graphing calculators (e.g., TI-83, TI-84 series without QWERTY, many Casio models).
• All scientific calculators.
• Four-function calculators (though not recommended due to limited functionality).

3. Specifically Prohibited Calculators/Devices:

• Laptops, mobile phones, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, or any device with internet access or wireless communication.
• Calculators with QWERTY keypads, pen-input, or stylus capabilities.
• Calculators that require an electrical outlet, make noise, or have a paper tape.

It’s your responsibility to ensure your calculator is permitted. Test proctors will check, and using a prohibited device can lead to dismissal.

Permitted vs. Prohibited Calculator Features (Math – Calculator Section)

Feature/Type	Status	Notes
Four-function	Allowed	Basic arithmetic operations.
Scientific	Allowed	Includes trig, logs, exponents.
Graphing	Allowed	If it doesn’t have prohibited features.
QWERTY Keypad	Not Allowed	Keyboard-like input.
Stylus/Pen Input	Not Allowed	Touchscreen input with a pen.
Wireless/Bluetooth/Infrared	Not Allowed	Communication capabilities.
Internet Access	Not Allowed	Connection to the internet.
Needs Power Outlet	Not Allowed	Must be battery-operated.
Makes Noise/Paper Tape	Not Allowed	Distracting features.
Phone/Tablet/Laptop Calculator	Not Allowed	These devices are banned.

Summary of calculator features and their allowance on the PSAT Math – Calculator section.

Practical Examples

Example 1: Student with a TI-84 Plus CE

• PSAT Section: Math – Calculator
• Calculator: TI-84 Plus CE (no QWERTY, no wireless)
• Result: Allowed. The TI-84 Plus CE is a standard graphing calculator without the prohibited features.
• Interpretation: The student can use their TI-84 Plus CE during the Math – Calculator section.

Example 2: Student with a TI-Nspire CX II CAS with QWERTY keyboard attachment

• PSAT Section: Math – Calculator
• Calculator: TI-Nspire CX II CAS with a QWERTY keyboard attachment (or a model with built-in QWERTY like some older ones)
• Result: Not Allowed. Calculators with QWERTY keypads are prohibited.
• Interpretation: The student cannot use this calculator with the QWERTY attachment. They would need to remove it or use a different, permitted calculator. Knowing if you can use a graphing calculator on the PSAT involves checking for these specific features.

Example 3: Student with a basic scientific calculator

• PSAT Section: Math – Calculator
• Calculator: Casio fx-115ES PLUS (Scientific)
• Result: Allowed. Scientific calculators are permitted.
• Interpretation: The student can use their scientific calculator.

Example 4: Student trying to use a phone calculator

• PSAT Section: Math – Calculator
• Calculator: Smartphone calculator app
• Result: Not Allowed. Phones are strictly prohibited.
• Interpretation: The student cannot use their phone as a calculator during any part of the PSAT.

How to Use This PSAT Calculator Policy Checker

1. Select the PSAT Section: Choose either “Math – Calculator” or “Math – No Calculator” from the first dropdown menu.
2. Select Calculator Type/Features: From the second dropdown, choose the option that best describes your calculator or device, paying close attention to features like QWERTY keyboards, stylus, wireless, etc.
3. Check the Result: The “Result” section will immediately update to show “Allowed” or “Not Allowed” with a corresponding color highlight.
4. Read the Details: The “Permitted on Selected Section,” “Reason/Notes,” and “Prohibited Features Mentioned” fields provide more context.
5. View the Chart: The chart gives a visual idea of generally allowed vs. prohibited features when the “Math – Calculator” section is selected.
6. Reset: Click “Reset” to return to the default selections.
7. Copy Results: Click “Copy Results” to copy the main result and details to your clipboard.

This tool helps you quickly understand if you can use a graphing calculator on the PSAT or if your chosen device meets the PSAT vs SAT calculator rules (which are very similar).

Key Factors That Affect Whether You Can Use a Graphing Calculator on the PSAT

• PSAT Section: This is the primary factor. No calculators of any kind are allowed on the “Math – No Calculator” section.
• QWERTY Keypad: Calculators with typewriter-like keypads are banned.
• Stylus or Pen-Input: Devices requiring a stylus or pen for input are not permitted.
• Wireless Communication: Any calculator with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared, or other wireless capabilities is prohibited.
• Internet Access: Calculators that can connect to the internet are not allowed.
• External Power Source: Calculators must be battery-operated and cannot require an electrical outlet.
• Official College Board List: While they don’t list every allowed model, they list prohibited features and some specific banned models or types. Always check the latest test day checklist and rules on the College Board website.
• Test Center Discretion: While there are official rules, the final say on the day of the test often rests with the test center supervisor and proctors, though they follow College Board guidelines. It’s best to have a clearly permitted calculator.

Understanding these factors is key to knowing if you can use a graphing calculator on the PSAT.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a TI-84 Plus on the PSAT?

Yes, the TI-84 Plus (and its variants like the CE) are generally allowed on the Math – Calculator section as long as they don’t have prohibited modifications or features like QWERTY keypads (which standard TI-84s don’t).

2. Is the TI-Nspire CX II CAS allowed on the PSAT?

Yes, the TI-Nspire CX II CAS is usually allowed, provided it does NOT have a QWERTY keyboard. The non-CAS version is also typically allowed. Be cautious about any attachments.

3. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator to the PSAT?

If you are found with a prohibited calculator, it will likely be confiscated for the duration of the test, and you may not be allowed to test, or your scores could be canceled. It’s crucial to check before test day.

4. Can I share my calculator during the PSAT?

No, sharing calculators is not allowed during the test.

5. Do I have to clear the memory on my graphing calculator before the PSAT?

While not always strictly enforced for the PSAT as much as for AP exams, it’s a good practice to clear any stored programs or data that could give an unfair advantage, as proctors may ask you to do so.

6. Are there any calculator programs allowed on the PSAT?

The College Board prohibits programs or applications that have QWERTY keyboard-like functions, use a stylus, or provide wireless communication. Programs that merely enhance graphing or calculation capabilities (without prohibited features) are generally okay, but complex programs that solve entire problems might be questionable. When in doubt, err on the side of caution or check official guidelines.

7. What if my calculator runs out of batteries during the test?

You are responsible for ensuring your calculator is working and has sufficient battery power. Bring extra batteries just in case and know how to change them quickly, although you may need permission to do so during the test.

8. Is the PSAT calculator policy the same as the SAT calculator policy?

Yes, the SAT calculator policy and the PSAT calculator policy are virtually identical. The rules regarding which calculators can be used on the PSAT or SAT are the same. Check our math strategies for PSAT page for tips.