<p>Everyone is suggesting that I used a graphing calculator on the SAT.
I go to a school where they aren't generally used in the math curriculum
I don't really know how to work one besides its basic functions and the apps</p>
<p>What are the benefits on the SAT to having one?
Personally i prefer my TI-30XS scientific calculator because it allows me to plug in numbers in fraction form. I just think the way that the numbers show up on the screen allows me to have to do less annoying parenthesis handywork.</p>
<p>I've tried to use my graphing calculator but i just dont see the benefits. If anything, I'm just slower bc of the whole parenthesis thing on the TI-84. also, its run on batteries and so much more bulky and than the TI-30. i need a really good compelling reason or someone to explain to me why i should use a graphing calculator on it</p>
<p>Stick with what you have; no SAT problem will require a calculator much less a graphing calculator.</p>
<p>On rare occasions, a problem can be solved with the graphing function of the calculator; in all of these cases, there is a better (usually, algebraic) solution.</p>
<p>For me, its the buttons. The buttons have that satisfying feel and they are accurate when I “type” really fast. For my scientific calculator, it doesn’t “click” and sometimes my numbers don’t show up.</p>
<p>Also, the equation solvers (either Math:Solver on the TI-83/84 or the CAS on the TI-89) can be useful. Plus, a graphing calculator allows you to go back to see your old entries. I used my graphing calculator as a large safety net on the math section to make sure I didn’t screw up any arithmetic, and I must admit that a scientific calculator would not have gotten the job done.</p>
<p>if you don’t want to use a graphing calculator, you really don’t need one. i use one regularly so i prefer them now, but on the regular SAT a scientific calculator is totally enough. if you were taking the level 2 subject test it would be a different story, but for the reasoning test, it’s really whatever makes you the most comfortable.</p>
<p>@pi: there are many examples of fully functional calculators that are not graphing calculators. E.g., I have a Sharp (EL-W516) that has the equivalent of math:solver, recall of old entries, great buttons, etc. along with a direct entry “EE” button (no 2nd function, this is very useful if you are going into engineering or physics), and costs $15 new on Amazon. The TI-30xs looks very similar (and has TI-8x style buttons AFAICT), and costs $13.</p>
<p>The graphing calculator is a must on the math subject tests. However, you definitely don’t need one for the regular reasoning test. I used a TI30. It was lighter and allowed me to move my fingers over it faster.</p>
<p>I used a TI-89.
Some things about it are annoying, such as forcing you to close your parenthesis, but it will solve fractions for you, factor quadratics, etc. It makes me happy because I’m lazy :3</p>