I’m planning on taking math classes up to Calculus 2 or 3 and was wondering if I should buy a Ti-84 Plus CE calculator, or if I should buy the TI-Nspire CX II CAS calculator. I’m also open to any other recommendations you may possibly have.
I’m planning on going to a 4-year university at UCLA or Berkeley.
TI 84+ (color version isn’t necessary, but I have it and it formats the equations etc. better than the black and white version) is popular and commonly used by my HS’ teachers + accepted on AP/ACT/SAT etc. I wouldn’t recommend the TI Nspire as it’s more like a fancy computer than an actual calculator—it’s not as straightforward to use IMO. I’d recommend asking your math teachers as well----they’ll be able to tell you which calculators they use and will be able to help you with.
UCLA and Berkeley are extremely selective, so getting in is another story.
Yes, the TI-83 and -84 series would be the best choices, IMO. The 84 Plus CE looks to be the latest, so that’s a fine choice.
The CAS calculators aren’t permitted for ACT tests, and I’ve found them to not be prevalent at HS/college, so getting assistance could be more of an issue.
One of my D’s friends forgot hers at the last standardized tests, but because just about everyone used the 83/84, she was able to use my D’s backup.
All of the school loaner ones were also 83/84’s.