ACT Calculator Use Guide & Permissibility Checker

Determine if your device meets the official rules for calculator use for act.

Is Your Calculator Allowed on the ACT?

Enter your calculator’s model and check any features it has to see if it’s permitted on the ACT Math test. This tool helps you understand the official calculator use for act policy.

Summary of Findings:

Common Reasons for Calculator Prohibition

This chart illustrates the most common features that make a calculator prohibited on the ACT.

What is the ‘calculator use for act’ Policy?

The policy governing calculator use for act is designed to ensure fairness for all test-takers and maintain test security. While students are encouraged to bring a calculator for the Mathematics section, it’s not a requirement, as all problems can be solved without one. The rules specify which types of calculators are allowed, which are outright prohibited, and which require modification before the test. Using a prohibited device can lead to dismissal from the test center. Calculators are only permitted on the math portion of the test, not on the science, reading, or English sections.

ACT Calculator Policy Rules Explained

The core of the ACT’s calculator policy revolves around prohibiting devices that could provide an unfair advantage. You can generally use any 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator as long as it’s not on the prohibited list. The main restrictions target devices with advanced communication, computer-like functionality, or access to a Computer Algebra System (CAS).

Prohibited Features and Models

The following table breaks down the features that determine whether a calculator is allowed. Understanding these is key to mastering the calculator use for act guidelines.

Key variables in the ACT calculator policy.

Variable / Feature	Meaning	Status	Typical Range / Examples
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Can manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically.	Prohibited	TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime.
QWERTY Keyboard	A keyboard laid out like a computer.	Prohibited	Any calculator with this feature.
Wireless Communication	Includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared ports.	Prohibited	Infrared ports must be covered with opaque tape.
External Power	Requires being plugged into an electrical outlet.	Prohibited	Calculator must be battery-operated.
Component of Another Device	Is a calculator app on a phone, tablet, or laptop.	Prohibited	No phones, smartwatches, or laptops allowed.
Graphing Capability	Can plot functions and display graphs.	Permitted	TI-84 Plus, Casio fx-9750GII.
Scientific Functions	Handles trigonometry, logarithms, and exponents.	Permitted	TI-30XS MultiView, Casio fx-300ES Plus.

Practical Examples of Calculator Use for ACT

Example 1: A Permitted Calculator

• Inputs: A student has a Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE.
• Analysis: This model does not have a CAS, a QWERTY keyboard, or any wireless features. It is a widely accepted graphing calculator.
• Result: Permitted. The student can use this calculator on the ACT Math test without any issues. This is a common and excellent choice for students familiar with it. For more details, see our ACT prep courses.

Example 2: A Prohibited Calculator

• Inputs: A student has a Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium.
• Analysis: This model is explicitly banned by the ACT because it includes a built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS).
• Result: Prohibited. The student will not be allowed to use this calculator during the test. They will need to bring an alternative, such as one from the TI-84 series or a scientific calculator.

How to Use This ‘calculator use for act’ Calculator

Follow these steps to ensure you are ready for test day:

1. Identify Your Calculator’s Features: Look at your calculator and check for a QWERTY keyboard, CAS functionality (often printed on the device), or any communication ports.
2. Enter Details into the Checker: Use the tool above. Enter the model name and check the boxes for any features your calculator has.
3. Review the Result: The tool will instantly tell you if your calculator is ‘Permitted’ or ‘Prohibited’ based on the official ACT policy.
4. Interpret the Explanation: The result will include an explanation, detailing exactly why your calculator is or isn’t allowed. For instance, it might highlight that CAS is a prohibited feature. For deeper strategies, check out these ACT math tips.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Permissibility

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason for a graphing calculator to be banned. CAS simplifies expressions and solves equations, which the ACT considers an unfair advantage.
• Model Series: ACT explicitly prohibits certain model series. For example, any Texas Instruments calculator starting with TI-89 or TI-92 is banned.
• Keyboard Layout: Devices with a QWERTY keyboard are not allowed, as they resemble computers.
• Communication Capabilities: Any device that can communicate wirelessly (infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) is prohibited. Some older models with infrared ports are allowed only if the port is completely covered.
• Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered. Devices that need to be plugged in are not allowed.
• Programs and Documents: Even on a permitted calculator like a TI-84, you may be required to clear all programs and documents before the test. Learn how to manage this with our official ACT guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Yes, the entire TI-84 series (including the Plus, Plus C Silver Edition, and Plus CE) is permitted on the ACT, as they do not contain a CAS. They are one of the most popular choices for the test.

2. Are scientific calculators allowed?

Yes, all scientific calculators are allowed as long as they don’t have any prohibited features. Many students prefer them for their speed and simplicity on non-graphing questions.

3. What is a Computer Algebra System (CAS) and why is it banned?

A CAS is a sophisticated program that can solve algebraic equations, factor polynomials, and perform other symbolic manipulations. The ACT prohibits them to ensure that the test measures a student’s mathematical skills, not their calculator’s power.

4. Can I use my phone’s calculator?

No. Any calculator that is part of a phone, tablet, laptop, or smartwatch is strictly prohibited. Using one will result in immediate dismissal.

5. What if my calculator makes noise?

Calculators that make noise are only permitted if the sound feature can be turned off. You must mute it before the test begins.

6. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?

Testing staff will check calculators. If you are found with a prohibited device, you will be dismissed from the test, and your score will be voided. It’s crucial to check your calculator with this calculator use for act guide beforehand.

7. Are calculators allowed on the ACT Science section?

No. Calculators are only allowed during the Mathematics section of the ACT. They are not permitted on the Science, Reading, or English tests. Explore our ACT science strategies for non-calculator approaches.

8. Do I have to clear the memory on my TI-84?

ACT policy states that calculators may not have any stored programs with CAS functionality. While proctors might not always check, it is highly recommended to clear your calculator’s memory of all programs to be safe. You can back them up to a computer first.