CAAP
About CAAP
How to Use
Test Modules
Reports
Ordering Information
Reference Materials
Contact Us
 
ACT Education Home

Use of Calculators on the CAAP Mathematics Test

ACT permits the use of calculators on the CAAP Mathematics Test for examinees who wish to use them; however, all problems on the test can be solved without using calculators.

  • You decide whether to use a calculator on the CAAP Mathematics Test. If you regularly use one in class or when doing your homework, it makes sense to use one on the test. But if you aren't comfortable using a calculator, you may decide not to use one on the test. You can always bring one and decide not to use it. Pack it the night before so you won't forget it in the morning.
     
  • If you decide to use a calculator, make sure it is the type you are used to at school or at home (but not one of the kinds of calculators not permitted).
     
  • You may not use these calculators:
    • pocket organizers
    • handheld or laptop computers
    • electronic writing pads or pen-input devices
    • calculators built into cellular phones or other wireless communication devices
    • models with a QWERTY (typewriter) keypad. (Calculators with letters on the keys are permitted as long as the keys are not arranged in QWERTY format.)
    • models with built-in Computer Algebra Systems (capability to simplify algebraic expressions, multiply polynomials, or factor polynomials) MORE INFORMATION

      Prohibited calculators include all calculators in all of the following series:
      • Casio CFX-9970G (including, for example, CFX-9970GE)
      • Casio Algebra fx 2.0
      • Hewlett-Packard HP-40G
      • Hewlett-Packard HP-49G
      • Texas Instruments TI-89
      • Texas Instruments TI-92 (including, for example, TI-92 Plus)
         
  • The following types of calculators are permitted only if they are used as noted:
    • models with paper tapes: The paper must be removed.
    • models that make noise: The sound feature must be turned off.
    • models that can communicate (transfer data or information) wirelessly with other calculators: The wireless transfer capability must be disabled by placing heavy opaque material (such as duct tape or electrician's tape) over the infrared data port.
    • models that have a power cord: The electrical cord must be removed.
       
  • You may use any four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator, as long as it doesn't have any of the features on the list.
     
  • If you plan to use a calculator, you must bring one to the test center. Don't forget to bring it with you. You can't share calculators and the test center supervisor will not lend you one.
     
  • Make sure your calculator works properly. Bring a spare calculator and extra batteries, if you wish. Test supervisors will not have extra batteries or calculators.
     
  • You may use a calculator only on the Mathematics Test.
     
  • If you bring a calculator, the test supervisor will make sure that
    • you are using an acceptable type of calculator;
    • you use your backup calculator only if your primary calculator fails;
    • you do not share your calculator with any other test taker;
    • you do not use your calculator's memory to store any test materials; and
    • you use your calculator only on the Mathematics Test.
       
  • If your calculator has large characters (one-inch high or larger) or a raised display, the supervisor may assign you to a seat where no other test taker can see your calculator.
     
 

More Information about Specific Calculator Models

All calculators in all of the following series are prohibited because they have built-in Computer Algebra Systems: Casio CFX-9970G and Algebra fx 2.0, Hewlett-Packard HP-40G and HP-49G, and Texas Instruments TI-89.

All calculators in the Texas Instruments TI-92 series are prohibited because they have QWERTY (typewriter) keyboards and built-in Computer Algebra Systems.

Calculators in the Hewlett-Packard HP-38G series and HP-48G series may be used only if the infrared communications port is covered with heavy opaque material such as duct tape or electrician's tape.

The Sharp EL-9600 is permitted for use, because it is not considered a pen-input device. You may bring the stylus that comes with the calculator.