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How to Use Calculator in Gre for Square Roots

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) includes quantitative reasoning sections that often require calculating square roots. While the GRE provides an on-screen calculator, knowing how to use it effectively for square root problems can save time and reduce errors. This guide explains how to use a calculator for square roots in the GRE, including proper techniques, common pitfalls, and worked examples.

How to Use a Calculator for Square Roots in GRE

When solving square root problems on the GRE, using the on-screen calculator correctly is essential. Here's a step-by-step guide to using the calculator effectively:

Step 1: Access the Calculator

The GRE calculator is available in the quantitative reasoning sections. It appears as a small window that you can open and close as needed. Familiarize yourself with its layout before the test.

Step 2: Enter the Problem

For square root problems, you'll typically need to enter the number under the square root symbol (√). For example, if the problem is √16, you would enter "16" into the calculator.

Step 3: Press the Square Root Button

Locate the square root button (√) on the calculator. This is usually in the top row of function buttons. Press it after entering the number.

Step 4: Verify the Calculation

After pressing the square root button, the calculator should display the result. Double-check that the calculation is correct, especially for problems with large numbers or decimals.

Step 5: Record the Answer

Write down the result in the answer grid provided by the GRE. Make sure to follow the GRE's answer format requirements (e.g., using the answer box or selecting from multiple-choice options).

Tip: Practice using the GRE calculator in timed practice tests to become familiar with its layout and functions.

Square Root Formula

The square root of a number x is a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives x. Mathematically, this is represented as:

√x = y, where y × y = x

For example, √9 = 3 because 3 × 3 = 9. The GRE calculator uses this formula to compute square roots for you.

Perfect Squares vs. Irrational Numbers

Some numbers have perfect square roots (e.g., √16 = 4), while others result in irrational numbers (e.g., √2 ≈ 1.414). The GRE calculator can handle both types, but you should be prepared to interpret the results appropriately.

Worked Examples

Let's look at a few examples of how to use the GRE calculator for square root problems.

Example 1: Perfect Square

Problem: What is √25?

  1. Open the GRE calculator.
  2. Enter "25".
  3. Press the √ button.
  4. The calculator displays "5".
  5. Write "5" in the answer grid.

Example 2: Irrational Number

Problem: What is √7 rounded to the nearest hundredth?

  1. Open the GRE calculator.
  2. Enter "7".
  3. Press the √ button.
  4. The calculator displays "2.6457513110645907".
  5. Round to two decimal places: "2.65".
  6. Write "2.65" in the answer grid.

Example 3: Complex Problem

Problem: If √(x) = 10, what is x?

  1. Open the GRE calculator.
  2. Enter "10".
  3. Press the x² button (which squares the number).
  4. The calculator displays "100".
  5. Write "100" in the answer grid.

FAQ

Can I use a scientific calculator instead of the GRE calculator?
No, the GRE provides its own on-screen calculator. You must use the GRE calculator during the test.
What if the square root result is not a whole number?
The GRE calculator will display the exact decimal value. You may need to round it to the nearest hundredth or whole number, depending on the problem instructions.
How do I handle negative numbers under the square root?
The GRE calculator will display an error for negative numbers under the square root. You should recognize that such problems have no real solutions.
Can I use the calculator to verify my manual calculations?
Yes, the GRE calculator is a reliable tool for verifying your manual calculations, especially for complex square root problems.