Can You Use a Calculator on the TEAS 2018?
A clear guide to the official calculator policy for the ATI TEAS exam relevant in 2018.
TEAS Calculator Policy Checker
In 2018, the active version of the exam was the TEAS 6.
What is the “can you use a calculator on the teas 2018” Question?
The question “can you use a calculator on the teas 2018” refers to the rules and regulations for the ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exam during the calendar year 2018. This test is a critical admissions requirement for students applying to nursing and allied health programs across the United States. Understanding the tool policy, especially for the Mathematics section, is crucial for adequate preparation and test-day success. The version of the test administered in 2018 was the ATI TEAS 6.
TEAS Calculator Policy and Explanation
For the TEAS exam in 2018 (Version 6), the policy was straightforward. You were not permitted to bring your own calculator. However, a calculator was provided to you. For computer-based exams, a basic four-function digital calculator was embedded within the test interface. For paper-and-pencil exams, a physical calculator was provided by the test proctor.
Policy Details
| Test Section | Calculator Access | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | No | Not applicable; assesses reading comprehension. |
| Mathematics | Yes, a provided four-function calculator. | Assists with arithmetic calculations. |
| Science | No | Focuses on scientific reasoning and knowledge, not complex calculation. |
| English and Language Usage | No | Not applicable; assesses grammar and language skills. |
Practical Scenarios in 2018
Example 1: Student taking the computer-based TEAS 6
A student named Alex logs in to take the TEAS exam at a proctored testing center. When the Mathematics section begins, a small calculator icon appears on the screen. Alex can click this icon to open a simple, on-screen calculator with buttons for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. He cannot use his personal graphing calculator he brought with him.
Example 2: Student preparing for the TEAS 6
Maria is studying for her upcoming TEAS exam. Knowing she cannot use her scientific calculator, she practices her math problems using only a basic four-function calculator. This helps her get used to the limitations of the provided tool and improves her ability to perform multi-step calculations efficiently, which is a key part of mastering the TEAS 6 math section.
How to Use the Provided TEAS Calculator
The calculator provided during the TEAS exam is intentionally simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to its use:
- Access: During the math section, the calculator is available on-screen. You do not need to do anything special to enable it.
- Functionality: It is a standard four-function calculator. This includes addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (×), and division (÷). There are no scientific functions like trigonometry, exponents, or logarithms.
- Strategy: Do not rely on it for every problem. Many questions can be solved faster with mental math or by-hand estimation. Use the calculator to confirm answers or for calculations involving tricky decimals or large numbers. For more tips, see our guide on nursing school entrance exams.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Use on the TEAS
- 1. Test Version: The rules are specific to the test version (e.g., TEAS 6 vs. TEAS 7). The policy in 2018 for TEAS 6 was a provided calculator.
- 2. Test Section: The calculator is exclusively for the Mathematics portion of the exam. It is not available during Reading, Science, or English sections.
- 3. Test Format (Online vs. Paper): While the rule is the same, the delivery differs. Online exams have a pop-up digital calculator, while paper exams get a physical one from the proctor.
- 4. Test Security: The primary reason for the strict policy is to prevent cheating and ensure fairness. All personal electronics, including calculators, are strictly forbidden.
- 5. Skill Assessment: The math section tests your numerical reasoning, not just your ability to press buttons. Some questions are designed to be solved logically, where a calculator might even slow you down.
- 6. Official ATI Policy: The absolute final word always comes from ATI, the creators of the test. It’s wise to check their official site for the most current TEAS test prep guidelines before your exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. So, definitively, was a calculator allowed on the TEAS in 2018?
Yes, but not your own. A basic four-function calculator was provided for you.
2. What version of the TEAS was used in 2018?
The version in use during 2018 was the ATI TEAS 6.
3. Could I bring my own TI-84 or scientific calculator?
No. Personal calculators of any kind are strictly prohibited.
4. Was the calculator available for the Science section?
No. The provided calculator was only available for use during the Mathematics section.
5. What functions did the provided calculator have?
It had only the four basic functions: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
6. Has the calculator policy changed for the new TEAS 7?
The policy remains the same for the TEAS 7. A four-function calculator is still provided within the testing software, and personal calculators are not allowed.
7. How should this policy affect my study strategy?
You should practice all math problems using only a basic four-function calculator or by hand. Avoid becoming dependent on a scientific calculator. Explore our TEAS practice test resources to simulate the experience.
8. Where could I find the official rules in 2018?
The official rules were published on the ATI Testing website. For historical reference and current rules, it is always best to consult the official source directly. Check out their TEAS study guide for more info.