<p>Checked through about 20 threads regarding Calcs before deciding I would get the TI-89... my 83+ isn't working anymore (the screen is messed up, sometimes it doesn't turn on, etc... No, it's not the batteries, that is the first solution I tried, several times.) This is the second time it's happened to my calculator. Anyway, I am planning on (re)taking Math IIC on January 28th and was wondering how long it would take me to get used to the TI-89. I'm not buying it just for the test by the way. I have several years experience with the TI-83+ and I'm a senior in Calc AB right now. I just want to make sure I can get familiar with the 89 within the next month.</p>
<p>It really doesn't take that long to learn. You should be fine for the test if you start using it now to prep. I bought mine las year two weeks before the AP Calc test and was able to use it well enough by then.</p>
<p>The only problem I have with my TI-89 Titanium is I experience a slight delay when I type in symbols using 2nd. I got used to it after a while, but I would occasionally screw up because the buttons didn't register as fast as my TI-83+.</p>
<p>I would get. It helps in Multivariable Calculus.</p>
<p>Learn to use the solve function and the math probability keys. The rest you dont need to know for the sat test.</p>
<p>Use it in math class, practice some tests with it, and you'll be good (you won't get it instantly, but it'll happen)</p>
<p>Thanks... I got it and started using it, checked out some tutorials online and such. One problem though...</p>
<p>Apparently the calculator has a value set for the variable x, and if I try to differentiate something for example, it gives me a numerical value. For example:</p>
<p>d(x^2+2x,x) gives me an answer of 3.</p>
<p>How do I fix it so that it gives me 2x+2?</p>
<p>I think it's F6 on the home screen (2nd + F1 maybe? I don't have my calculator with me) and click on clear all variables. If that doens't work, press Var-Link (2nd + some key in the area of the - and + signs) and find a file called "x" under the main menu and delete it. If THAT doesn't work, restart your calculator and if all that fails, return the calculator or else just hit it until it works. (I have actually done the latter....oops) ;-)</p>
<p>YOu have to go into memory, which is like 2nd memory (down bottom right). Then go into delete all and then select X and hit delete on it. IF you cant find it post again and Ill go get my 89. My calc teacher is giving us a test tom using our calc, I dont know why. It does everything exept for setting up related rates equations.</p>
<p>Just reset it. Anyway for the Math IIC a TI-89 should be fine. You dont really need all its advanced functions. I did it with a good old scientific calc and got an 800. The one annoying or maybe good function is that the 89 is set to automatically to display an answer in the fraction form. You can have it round it to a decimal but you have to press an extra button. Not really a pain but I was more used to the other way around.</p>
<p>ti89 can also factor and foil...so if you have trouble with that, the calc will help</p>