Can You Use a Calculator on the TEAS Exam?
Wondering do you get to use a calculator on the TEAS exam? Use our simple tool below to check the calculator policy for each section of the ATI TEAS test.
TEAS Calculator Policy Checker
What is the TEAS Calculator Policy?
Many students ask, “Do you get to use a calculator on the TEAS?” The answer depends on the section of the exam you are taking. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), administered by ATI, has a specific policy regarding calculator usage.
For the Mathematics section, a basic four-function calculator is built into the computer-based testing platform. You do not need to bring your own, and in fact, personal calculators are prohibited. For the Reading, Science, and English and Language Usage sections, no calculator is permitted or provided.
This policy ensures fairness and tests your ability to perform calculations where required, while also assessing non-mathematical skills in other sections without calculator aid. Understanding the TEAS exam guide and its rules is crucial.
TEAS Calculator Rules Explained
The rule is straightforward:
- Mathematics Section: Yes, a basic on-screen calculator (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) is provided within the testing software.
- Reading Section: No calculator allowed.
- Science Section: No calculator allowed.
- English and Language Usage Section: No calculator allowed.
The provided calculator is basic, so it’s important to be comfortable with fundamental arithmetic operations and the types of problems you’ll face in the TEAS math prep materials.
Variables/Sections Table
| Section | Calculator Allowed? | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | No | N/A |
| Mathematics | Yes | On-screen, basic four-function |
| Science | No | N/A |
| English and Language Usage | No | N/A |
Table: Calculator allowance for each TEAS section.
Chart: Visual representation of calculator allowance per TEAS section.
Practical Examples
Let’s see how this applies:
Example 1: Taking the Mathematics Section
You are working on a problem in the Mathematics section that requires you to divide 144 by 12. You can use the on-screen calculator provided by the testing software to quickly find the answer.
Example 2: Taking the Science Section
You encounter a question in the Science section that involves some basic ratio calculation. You must perform this calculation mentally or using scratch paper, as no calculator is available for this section.
How to Use This TEAS Calculator Policy Checker
- Select the Section: Use the dropdown menu to choose the TEAS exam section (Mathematics, Reading, Science, or English and Language Usage) you are curious about.
- Check Policy: Click the “Check Policy” button (or it updates automatically).
- View Results: The tool will instantly display whether a calculator is allowed for the selected section, the type, and a brief explanation.
- Reset: Use the “Reset” button to go back to the default selection.
- Copy Results: Click “Copy Results” to copy the findings to your clipboard.
This tool helps you quickly understand if you get to use a calculator on the TEAS for a specific part of the exam.
Key Factors Regarding the TEAS Calculator
- Official ATI Policy: The most important factor is the official rule set by ATI. Always refer to the latest What is the TEAS Test information from ATI.
- On-Screen Calculator Only: You cannot bring your own calculator. The one provided is basic and part of the test software for the Math section only.
- Basic Functions: The provided calculator is four-function (add, subtract, multiply, divide). It does not have scientific or graphing capabilities.
- No Calculator in Other Sections: Be prepared to solve problems in Reading, Science, and English without a calculator.
- Scratch Paper: You are typically provided with scratch paper, which you can use for manual calculations in any section.
- Practice with the On-Screen Calculator: If possible, familiarize yourself with the interface of a basic on-screen calculator during your TEAS practice tests.
Understanding these factors helps you prepare adequately and avoid surprises on test day when considering do you get to use a calculator on the TEAS exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. Can I bring my own calculator to the TEAS test?
- No, personal calculators are not allowed in the TEAS exam under any circumstances.
- 2. Is the calculator available for all TEAS sections?
- No, the on-screen calculator is only available during the Mathematics section.
- 3. What kind of calculator is provided during the TEAS exam?
- A basic four-function digital calculator is provided on-screen during the Mathematics section.
- 4. What if I need a calculator for the Science section?
- Calculators are not permitted for the Science section. You will need to perform any necessary calculations manually using the provided scratch paper or mentally.
- 5. How do I access the calculator during the Math section?
- The on-screen calculator will be available as part of the testing interface during the Mathematics section. There will usually be a button to open it.
- 6. Should I practice math without a calculator for the TEAS?
- While a calculator is provided for the Math section, it’s wise to practice basic arithmetic without one, as it strengthens your number sense and helps if you choose not to use the calculator for every step. You definitely need to practice without one for the Science section questions that might involve numbers.
- 7. Where can I find the official TEAS calculator policy?
- The official policy is detailed in the ATI TEAS Candidate Agreement and on the official ATI TEAS website.
- 8. Does the on-screen calculator have a square root or percentage button?
- It’s typically a very basic four-function calculator, so it may not have dedicated square root or percentage buttons. Be prepared to calculate these manually if needed.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
- TEAS Practice Tests: Take full-length practice exams to simulate the test environment, including using the on-screen calculator where appropriate.
- TEAS Math Prep Course: Focus on the math skills needed for the TEAS exam, with or without a calculator.
- TEAS Exam Guide: Get comprehensive information about the TEAS test structure, content, and rules.
- What is the TEAS Test?: Learn about the purpose and format of the TEAS exam.
- TEAS Study Materials: Find resources to help you prepare for all sections of the TEAS.
- TEAS Test Dates: Find upcoming test dates and registration information.