Can I Use a Calculator on the PERT Test? Policy Checker & Guide
Get an instant answer to whether a calculator is allowed on the Mathematics, Reading, or Writing sections of the Florida PERT exam.
PERT Calculator Policy Checker
Select the subject to see the official calculator policy.
What is the PERT (Postsecondary Education Readiness Test)?
The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is Florida’s official college placement exam. Its purpose is to determine if you are ready for college-level coursework in Mathematics, Reading, and Writing. Your scores don’t mean you pass or fail; instead, they guide your college in placing you in the right starting courses to ensure your success. Because the test is designed to measure your foundational skills, a common question arises: can I use a calculator on the PERT? This guide provides a definitive answer.
This chart illustrates that calculator use is highly restricted and only conditionally available for the Math section.
The Official PERT Calculator Formula and Explanation
The rule for using a calculator on the PERT test is simple and strict. Personal calculators are never allowed. For certain questions on the Mathematics subtest, the testing system will provide a pop-up, on-screen calculator. If the calculator icon doesn’t appear for a question, you cannot use one.
PERT Calculator Policy Summary
| Test Section | Personal Calculator Allowed? | On-Screen Calculator Provided? | Typical Unit of Measurement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | No | Yes, for specific questions only. | Unitless numbers, variables (x, y) |
| Reading | No | No | Not Applicable (Passages/Words) |
| Writing | No | No | Not Applicable (Sentences/Grammar) |
Understanding this policy is crucial for your test day strategy. For more details on what to expect, you might want to review PERT Exam Prep Tips.
Practical Examples
Example 1: Math Section (Calculator Available)
A student is faced with a complex algebra problem involving decimals. The testing software determines this question is appropriate for calculator use. A calculator icon appears on the screen. The student clicks it, and a basic 4-function digital calculator pops up, which they use to find the solution.
Example 2: Math Section (No Calculator)
The next question is about simplifying a polynomial expression. This tests conceptual understanding, not complex arithmetic. No calculator icon appears. The student must use their knowledge of algebra and the provided scratch paper to solve it. This is a key reason to study PERT Math Topics thoroughly.
How to Use This PERT Calculator Policy Checker
Using our tool is straightforward:
- Select the Section: Choose ‘Mathematics’, ‘Reading’, or ‘Writing’ from the dropdown menu.
- Click the Button: Press the “Check Calculator Policy” button.
- Interpret the Result: The tool will immediately display a “Yes (with conditions)” or “No” and provide a detailed explanation of the official rule for that specific section.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Use on the PERT
- Test Section: The most significant factor. Calculators are only a possibility in the Math section.
- Question Type: The test is adaptive. The system decides which math questions warrant a calculator. Questions testing fundamental concepts like factoring polynomials generally do not get a calculator.
- Official Florida Department of Education Policy: The statewide rules strictly forbid any personal calculators to ensure a level playing field.
- On-Screen Availability: The rule is simple: if the calculator icon doesn’t appear on the screen for a given question, you cannot use one.
- Test Security: The ban on personal devices, including calculator watches and phones, is strictly enforced to maintain test integrity.
- Skill Assessment Goal: The Reading and Writing sections test verbal and grammatical skills, where a calculator has no application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about using a calculator on the PERT
No. Personal calculators, including graphing calculators (like a TI-84) or scientific calculators, are strictly prohibited. Bringing one into the testing center is a violation of the rules.
For certain math questions, a basic on-screen, 4-function calculator will pop up within the testing platform. It is not a scientific calculator.
No. The calculator is only available for specific questions that the testing system deems appropriate. Many questions, especially those testing foundational algebra skills, will not have a calculator available.
These sections assess your comprehension, grammar, and analytical skills. Calculators are irrelevant to these tasks, so they are not provided or allowed.
You should practice solving all types of PERT math problems without a calculator. Focus on mastering fundamental concepts, order of operations, and mental math. Use a calculator only to check your work during practice. To get started, check out our guide on how to pass the PERT test.
Being caught with a prohibited item like a personal calculator can lead to the invalidation of your test score and removal from the testing center.
Yes. Even when taking the PERT online with a proctoring service like Honorlock, the same rules apply. You cannot use a personal calculator, and the on-screen calculator is only available for designated questions.
Yes, test centers typically provide scratch paper and a pencil for you to work out problems by hand, which is essential for the math section.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
To continue your preparation for the PERT, explore these helpful resources:
- Free PERT Practice Test Exam – Test your skills with realistic practice questions.
- PERT Math Topics Explained – A deep dive into the algebra and geometry concepts on the exam.
- How to Pass the PERT Test – Strategic tips and study advice for all sections.
- PERT Reading Study Guide – Improve your reading comprehension and analytical skills.
- PERT Writing Practice Questions – Sharpen your grammar and sentence structure abilities.
- College Readiness Calculator – See how your scores align with college-level course placement.