What Calculator Is Available
The PTCE testing center provides a basic calculator for your use during the exam. You cannot bring your own calculator. The provided calculator handles basic arithmetic: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. This is sufficient for all calculation types on the PTCE.
Practice With a Basic Calculator
If you have been studying with a scientific calculator or phone app, switch to a basic calculator for your practice sessions in the final weeks before the exam. Using the same type of tool you will have on test day eliminates surprises and builds comfort with its limitations.
Calculator Tips for the Exam
- Clear the calculator before starting each new problem
- Double-check that you entered numbers correctly before hitting equals
- For multi-step problems, write intermediate results on your scratch paper rather than relying on calculator memory
- If your calculated answer does not match any of the choices, re-enter the calculation to check for a data entry error
When to Use the Calculator
Use the calculator for any arithmetic that is not immediately obvious. Even simple multiplication can produce errors under exam pressure. It is faster and more reliable to use the calculator for two seconds than to do mental math and second-guess yourself.
When Not to Rely on the Calculator
The calculator does the arithmetic, but you still need to set up the problem correctly. Identify what the question is asking, determine the right formula or approach, and set up the equation before touching the calculator. A correctly entered wrong equation still gives a wrong answer.