Easily create programs in your TI-83 graphing calculator with some internal commands. Use the programs to compute math equations that have multiple steps or to complete complex calculus problems. Access the program quickly to perform the same function repeatedly for efficiency and enter as many programs as your calculator's memory will hold.
Instructions:
1. Choose "prgm" from your menu. This brings you to the program menu. Choose "New" program and hit "Enter."
2. Pick a name for your program and enter it when prompted by the two blinking dots by the cursor. Hit "Enter" and you are ready to create your program.
3. Enter a formula for your calculation. Below are some examples of finance calculations. Simple Interest is calculated as "I=PRT and A=P(1+rt)." Compound Interest is calculated as "A=P(1+i)n." Future Value is calculated as "FV = PMT * ( (1+i)n - 1) / i." Present Value is calculated as "PV = PMT * ( 1- (1+i)-n ) / i."
4. Hit "Enter" to save your program.
5. Navigate to "prgm" and choose your new created program.
6. Select your variables when prompted by your new created program on your TI-83 graphing calculator and watch your program run.
Tips & Warnings
- Pick a name for your program that is close to the name of the equation you are trying to solve. The name can only be eight characters long.
- Use the pre-programmed programs on your TI-83 graphing calculators "prgm" menu.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Solve Quadratic Equations on a TI-89 Graphing Calculator
Quadratic equations are equations that involve second degree of unknown variables. Many students taking the SAT Reasoning Test or a subject test in mathematics will find that solving simple quadratic equations by hand wastes a lot of time. If you are using a TI-89 Titanium graphing calculator, there is an easy method to reduce the factoring and rationalizing time to a mere seconds.
Instructions:
1. Press the Home button to begin the calculation.
2. Press F2 and then the "Enter" key to select the "solve" command. The solve command solves equations if correct arguments are entered.
3. Input the quadratic equation, including both sides of the equation with only one variable.
4. Input the unknown variable after the quadratic equation. Make sure you place a comma between the equation you entered in step 3 and the unknown variable. For instance, if the equation is x^2+5x-2 = 0, your calculator screen should read "solve(x^2+5x-2=0,x)."
5. Press the "Enter" key and the unknown variable will be displayed on the screen.
Tips & Warnings
If you want an exact value of the answer, press the yellow diamond key and then press the enter key.
Instructions:
1. Press the Home button to begin the calculation.
2. Press F2 and then the "Enter" key to select the "solve" command. The solve command solves equations if correct arguments are entered.
3. Input the quadratic equation, including both sides of the equation with only one variable.
4. Input the unknown variable after the quadratic equation. Make sure you place a comma between the equation you entered in step 3 and the unknown variable. For instance, if the equation is x^2+5x-2 = 0, your calculator screen should read "solve(x^2+5x-2=0,x)."
5. Press the "Enter" key and the unknown variable will be displayed on the screen.
Tips & Warnings
If you want an exact value of the answer, press the yellow diamond key and then press the enter key.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Cleaning Graphing Calculators
Graphing calculators are common tools used in high school and college math classes. Due to their frequent use and storage in backpacks and lockers, graphing calculators are likely to get dirty. The screen may smudge or the keys may get sticky. Cleaning the unit is a straightforward process, as long as you take care not to drip any water onto the calculator.
Instructions
1. Invert the calculator and shake it gently to free any loose debris or dirt before cleaning.
2. Dip a cotton swab into a cup of water and blot it on a cloth to remove excessive moisture. The swab should be just damp with no water dripping from the end.
3. Move the swab gently over the graphing calculator screen without exerting much pressure. If marks persist, repeat the process several times. Avoid rewetting the cotton swab unless it completely dries out. Wipe the screen with a cloth to dry.
4. Dip the swab back into the water and blot thoroughly. The tip should be less wet than it was when you cleaned the screen.
5. Clean between the keyboard by carefully moving the swab between and over the keys. Do not insert the swab under the keys.
6. Wet a small section of a cloth in the water and wring it out. Clean the back and sides of the calculator, ensuring that no water pools on the unit. Use a wet cotton swab to clean out the side groves that the cover slides into. Dry the calculator with a cloth.
7. Rewet and wring the cloth and wipe the cover on all sides. Allow the cover to air dry or use a dry section of the cloth.
Tips & Warnings
- Use only a dry cloth if you need to clean out the battery case.
- You risk breaking or cracking the screen if you press hard on it.
- Never use cleaning solutions on the graphing calculator. They can seep into the wiring and damage the calculator.
Instructions
1. Invert the calculator and shake it gently to free any loose debris or dirt before cleaning.
2. Dip a cotton swab into a cup of water and blot it on a cloth to remove excessive moisture. The swab should be just damp with no water dripping from the end.
3. Move the swab gently over the graphing calculator screen without exerting much pressure. If marks persist, repeat the process several times. Avoid rewetting the cotton swab unless it completely dries out. Wipe the screen with a cloth to dry.
4. Dip the swab back into the water and blot thoroughly. The tip should be less wet than it was when you cleaned the screen.
5. Clean between the keyboard by carefully moving the swab between and over the keys. Do not insert the swab under the keys.
6. Wet a small section of a cloth in the water and wring it out. Clean the back and sides of the calculator, ensuring that no water pools on the unit. Use a wet cotton swab to clean out the side groves that the cover slides into. Dry the calculator with a cloth.
7. Rewet and wring the cloth and wipe the cover on all sides. Allow the cover to air dry or use a dry section of the cloth.
Tips & Warnings
- Use only a dry cloth if you need to clean out the battery case.
- You risk breaking or cracking the screen if you press hard on it.
- Never use cleaning solutions on the graphing calculator. They can seep into the wiring and damage the calculator.
Graph Pictures and Functions on a Calculator
In addition to the ability to display the numbers and symbols required for mathematical formulas, graphing calculators have a bit-addressable display that allows them to plot mathematical functions over a given interval. Graphing calculators also include primitives to turn on any subset of the pixels on the screen, even if the resulting pattern does not correspond to the graph of any known mathematical function.
Instructions
1. Set the graphing mode that you need on your calculator. The directions will vary, depending on the make and model of your calculator, as well as the graphing mode that you wish to use. For example, on the TI-85 (a very popular model), select the "Func" graphing mode before plotting any functions. Press "2nd," and then "More." Navigate to the line that has the word "Func" at the beginning. Use the left and right arrow keys to select "Func". Press "Enter."
2. Select the coordinate system for the plot that you want to make. For example, on a TI-85, press "Graph," then "More," and then "F3." Move the arrow keys to "RectGC" and press "Enter." The next plot will use a rectangular, Cartesian coordinate system.
3. Enter the function that you wish to plot on the calculator's screen. For example, for the function: "y = x sin(2x)" on a TI-85, press "Graph," then "F1," and then "Clear," "x-VAR," "sin," "2," "x-VAR." Press "Enter" to have the calculator parse the formula and get ready to plot it.
4. Instruct the calculator to display the graph. For example, on a TI-85, press "Graph," and then "F5." The formula you entered in Step 3 will be plotted on the calculator's screen.
5. Create a picture by drawing individual lines and points, one at a time. A point is a particular position on a line where the start and end points happen to be the same. For example, on a TI-85, press "Graph," and then select "Draw." Use the arrow keys to move the blinking cursor to the point where the line should start, and then press "Enter." Do the same for the point where the line should end. The calculator will draw a straight line between the two points.
Instructions
1. Set the graphing mode that you need on your calculator. The directions will vary, depending on the make and model of your calculator, as well as the graphing mode that you wish to use. For example, on the TI-85 (a very popular model), select the "Func" graphing mode before plotting any functions. Press "2nd," and then "More." Navigate to the line that has the word "Func" at the beginning. Use the left and right arrow keys to select "Func". Press "Enter."
2. Select the coordinate system for the plot that you want to make. For example, on a TI-85, press "Graph," then "More," and then "F3." Move the arrow keys to "RectGC" and press "Enter." The next plot will use a rectangular, Cartesian coordinate system.
3. Enter the function that you wish to plot on the calculator's screen. For example, for the function: "y = x sin(2x)" on a TI-85, press "Graph," then "F1," and then "Clear," "x-VAR," "sin," "2," "x-VAR." Press "Enter" to have the calculator parse the formula and get ready to plot it.
4. Instruct the calculator to display the graph. For example, on a TI-85, press "Graph," and then "F5." The formula you entered in Step 3 will be plotted on the calculator's screen.
5. Create a picture by drawing individual lines and points, one at a time. A point is a particular position on a line where the start and end points happen to be the same. For example, on a TI-85, press "Graph," and then select "Draw." Use the arrow keys to move the blinking cursor to the point where the line should start, and then press "Enter." Do the same for the point where the line should end. The calculator will draw a straight line between the two points.
How Use a Graphing Calculator
This is not your average calculator. Graphing calculators, used widely in high school math classes, are like hand-held computers that are able to not only add 1+1 but also solve proofs, find derivatives and plot graphs in the same size container as a walkman. These mathematical gadgets are capable of handling multiple equations at once, reading lines of text and even being programmed for gaming. Luckily, you found this guide that will show you how find your way around the modern marvel that is the graphing calculator.
Instructions
1. Get familiar with the keypad. Unlike a normal calculator, the graphing calculator utilizes a keypad that is similar to a phone keypad as it features both numbers and letters. The letters are only able to be accessed if your hit the "Alpha" key, which is located in a different place on various models of calculators. Also unlike the traditional calculator, the graphing calculator has an "On" button and an "Off" button.
2. Find the exponent button on your calculator. This is one of the calculator's most useful features, as it allows you to quickly and easily find any number to any exponent. You can even use the letters to enter in a value for X to the N exponent, a helpful trick when writing out variable equations.
3. Locate the "Y=" button, traditionally found along the top of the calculator underneath the screen. This button will allow you to write equations that can be turned into graphs. An example of a "Y=" equation that will yield a graph is:Y=3X +6You can also utilize the "Y=" button for multiple equations, therefore multiple graphs on the same axis.
4. Graph the equation above clicking on the "graph" button, usually found next to or near the "Y=" button under the screen of the calculator. This will toggle any equations you have written out into a grid and draw the graph line through it appropriately. Most calculators also have zoom buttons available so you can scroll close to your graph or further away as necessary. You can return to the equation view by selecting the "Y=" button again.
5. Find the contrast and brightness buttons on your calculator. Since the screens are far more advanced than a normal calculator, it is important you manipulate saturation and brightness to a level that is comfortable to your eyes. Consider making the screen darker than it defaults to, as this will make reading graphs easier.
Instructions
1. Get familiar with the keypad. Unlike a normal calculator, the graphing calculator utilizes a keypad that is similar to a phone keypad as it features both numbers and letters. The letters are only able to be accessed if your hit the "Alpha" key, which is located in a different place on various models of calculators. Also unlike the traditional calculator, the graphing calculator has an "On" button and an "Off" button.
2. Find the exponent button on your calculator. This is one of the calculator's most useful features, as it allows you to quickly and easily find any number to any exponent. You can even use the letters to enter in a value for X to the N exponent, a helpful trick when writing out variable equations.
3. Locate the "Y=" button, traditionally found along the top of the calculator underneath the screen. This button will allow you to write equations that can be turned into graphs. An example of a "Y=" equation that will yield a graph is:Y=3X +6You can also utilize the "Y=" button for multiple equations, therefore multiple graphs on the same axis.
4. Graph the equation above clicking on the "graph" button, usually found next to or near the "Y=" button under the screen of the calculator. This will toggle any equations you have written out into a grid and draw the graph line through it appropriately. Most calculators also have zoom buttons available so you can scroll close to your graph or further away as necessary. You can return to the equation view by selecting the "Y=" button again.
5. Find the contrast and brightness buttons on your calculator. Since the screens are far more advanced than a normal calculator, it is important you manipulate saturation and brightness to a level that is comfortable to your eyes. Consider making the screen darker than it defaults to, as this will make reading graphs easier.
Compare Graphing Calculators
The cost of graphing calculators, which feature many customizable options and built-in algorithms to make difficult math easier and are required for many advanced math courses in high school and college, can vary widely. The cheapest graphing calculator offered at Staples.com, a major home office and school supply retailer, is $54.99, and the most expensive model costs $219.99. With such variation, it's important to compare models to make sure you are getting a graphing calculator that does what you need it to do, but also that you aren't paying for programs that you'll never use.
Instructions:
1. Look at onboard memory. A range of options are available; HP, a major graphing calculator manufacturer, offers a model with a mere 32KB of memory as well as a calculator with 1.3MB of memory. More memory allows for increased storage for onboard notes, extra applications and graphing calculator games. If you don't plan on adding many special programs or taking virtual notes, get a low-memory model to save money.
2. Consider connectivity options. Especially relevant to those who plan on uploading custom programs, it is important to compare USB, 10-pin and 4-pin connectivity. Make sure that the calculator you select is able to hook up to your computer.
3. Look for the right built-in functions and equations. The packaging will usually tell you what types of math courses the calculator is best suited for. Most graphing calculators come with the basics required for algebra and statistics; however, a geometry, trigonometry, or calculus course may require a higher-end graphing calculator.
4. Factor in the cost of accessories. Don't just pay attention to the calculator's sticker price when comparison shopping. Remember that you may need extra cables for computer connectivity, batteries for power and a carrying case for portability. Going with a slightly higher priced item that comes bundled with these accessories may actually save you money when you consider the cost of buying each accessory separately.
5. If you want to use the graphing calculator on a standardized test such as the SAT or ACT, make sure it is approved for that purpose. This information should be given on the calculator's packaging, or you can check the manufacturer's website.
Instructions:
1. Look at onboard memory. A range of options are available; HP, a major graphing calculator manufacturer, offers a model with a mere 32KB of memory as well as a calculator with 1.3MB of memory. More memory allows for increased storage for onboard notes, extra applications and graphing calculator games. If you don't plan on adding many special programs or taking virtual notes, get a low-memory model to save money.
2. Consider connectivity options. Especially relevant to those who plan on uploading custom programs, it is important to compare USB, 10-pin and 4-pin connectivity. Make sure that the calculator you select is able to hook up to your computer.
3. Look for the right built-in functions and equations. The packaging will usually tell you what types of math courses the calculator is best suited for. Most graphing calculators come with the basics required for algebra and statistics; however, a geometry, trigonometry, or calculus course may require a higher-end graphing calculator.
4. Factor in the cost of accessories. Don't just pay attention to the calculator's sticker price when comparison shopping. Remember that you may need extra cables for computer connectivity, batteries for power and a carrying case for portability. Going with a slightly higher priced item that comes bundled with these accessories may actually save you money when you consider the cost of buying each accessory separately.
5. If you want to use the graphing calculator on a standardized test such as the SAT or ACT, make sure it is approved for that purpose. This information should be given on the calculator's packaging, or you can check the manufacturer's website.
Graph Equations on a Graphing Calculator
Many high school and college classes require graphing calculators to help you understand principles of graphing. A graphing calculator is a hand-held calculator that can solve equations and graph solutions. Many types of graphing calculators are on the market, including the TI-89, HP 48G and the Casio FX-9750G Plus. Although each graphing calculator has unique operations, the basic steps required to make a graph are the same.
Instructions:
1. Press the "y=editor" button on your graphing calculator. The "y=editor" button is usually a "y=" symbol located toward the top left of the calculator.
2. Type your equation into the first line of the calculator using the numeric keypad. Do not type in the "Y=" part of the equation; the calculator does that for you. For example, if you want to graph Y=X^2, just type x^2.
3. Press the "Graph" key on the calculator. The graph key is usually located on the top row of the calculator.
Tips & Warnings
If you don't see a graph on your screen, it could be that your window is too large or too small. Press the "window" button on your calculator and check that the settings make sense for your graph. For example, if you are graphing x^2, you should see a graph if the window is set to Xmin of 0 and an Xmax of 10. To change the window, press the arrow keys on the keyboard to move to the number you want to change and then type the new number. When you are finished resetting the window, press "Graph."
Instructions:
1. Press the "y=editor" button on your graphing calculator. The "y=editor" button is usually a "y=" symbol located toward the top left of the calculator.
2. Type your equation into the first line of the calculator using the numeric keypad. Do not type in the "Y=" part of the equation; the calculator does that for you. For example, if you want to graph Y=X^2, just type x^2.
3. Press the "Graph" key on the calculator. The graph key is usually located on the top row of the calculator.
Tips & Warnings
If you don't see a graph on your screen, it could be that your window is too large or too small. Press the "window" button on your calculator and check that the settings make sense for your graph. For example, if you are graphing x^2, you should see a graph if the window is set to Xmin of 0 and an Xmax of 10. To change the window, press the arrow keys on the keyboard to move to the number you want to change and then type the new number. When you are finished resetting the window, press "Graph."
Using a TI-83 Graphing Calculator
If you're taking an elementary statistics class in college or an AP statistics class in high school, the chances are you'll be asked to use a TI-83 graphing calculator to solve problems. The TI-83 looks nothing like other calculators you might be used to, like a scientific calculator. The TI-83 has a small screen for showing graphs, tables, and calculations; it also has a myriad of buttons to push and menus to explore. If it all seems overwhelming, explore some basic functions of the calculator and you'll soon get used to it.
Instructions:
1. Turn the calculator on by pressing the "On" button located at the bottom left of the calculator.
2. Graph a basic function. Press the "Y=" button and type a function into the calculator. For example, type x^2. Press the "Graph" key to view your graph on the screen. If you can't see your graph, press the "Window" key and then type "-10" for Xmin. Press the down arrow key and type "10" for Xmax. Press the down arrow and type Xscl=1. Press the "Zoom" key and then press the "0" key. Your graph should now appear on the screen.
3. Enter a few basic commands using the keypad to get the hang of entering basic equations. For example, type "X^9" by pressing the number "9" and then pressing the "X^2" key located in the left hand column.
4. Press the "2nd" key (the yellow key at the top left) and then press the "0" key to access the catalog. Scroll through the catalog using the scroll keys and familiarize yourself with the available commands. Press the "Enter" key at the bottom right of the keyboard to use the command. For example, to figure out log2, scroll down to log, then press "Enter." Press the "2" key and then press "Enter."
Tips & Warnings
The TI83 has a steep learning curve: it's basically a mini computer disguised as a calculator. The best way to learn it is to use it to solve actual problems. The TI-83 User Guide (see References) is available online to help you use the calculator for actual problems: refer to it when you get stuck.
Instructions:
1. Turn the calculator on by pressing the "On" button located at the bottom left of the calculator.
2. Graph a basic function. Press the "Y=" button and type a function into the calculator. For example, type x^2. Press the "Graph" key to view your graph on the screen. If you can't see your graph, press the "Window" key and then type "-10" for Xmin. Press the down arrow key and type "10" for Xmax. Press the down arrow and type Xscl=1. Press the "Zoom" key and then press the "0" key. Your graph should now appear on the screen.
3. Enter a few basic commands using the keypad to get the hang of entering basic equations. For example, type "X^9" by pressing the number "9" and then pressing the "X^2" key located in the left hand column.
4. Press the "2nd" key (the yellow key at the top left) and then press the "0" key to access the catalog. Scroll through the catalog using the scroll keys and familiarize yourself with the available commands. Press the "Enter" key at the bottom right of the keyboard to use the command. For example, to figure out log2, scroll down to log, then press "Enter." Press the "2" key and then press "Enter."
Tips & Warnings
The TI83 has a steep learning curve: it's basically a mini computer disguised as a calculator. The best way to learn it is to use it to solve actual problems. The TI-83 User Guide (see References) is available online to help you use the calculator for actual problems: refer to it when you get stuck.
Using Fractions on a Graphing Calculator
Graphing calculators are often used in advanced math classes and are capable of computing both simple and complex equations, plotting graphs and numerous other functions using variables. The graphing calculator can be programmed to also solve scientific and engineering equations. Users can convert values to fractions, and enter numbers as fractions using the appropriate program keys of the calculator.
Instructions:
-> Enter a Number as a Fraction:
1. Press the "(" key.
2. Enter the numerator of the fraction.
3. Press the "/" key.
4. Enter the denominator of the fraction.
5. Press the ")" key. The fraction is displayed -- for example (3/5).
-> Display an Answer as a Fraction
1. Enter the number you wish to convert to a fraction.
2. Press the "MATH" button to display the Math menu.
3. Select the "Frac" command and press "Enter." The value converted to a fraction is displayed.
Instructions:
-> Enter a Number as a Fraction:
1. Press the "(" key.
2. Enter the numerator of the fraction.
3. Press the "/" key.
4. Enter the denominator of the fraction.
5. Press the ")" key. The fraction is displayed -- for example (3/5).
-> Display an Answer as a Fraction
1. Enter the number you wish to convert to a fraction.
2. Press the "MATH" button to display the Math menu.
3. Select the "Frac" command and press "Enter." The value converted to a fraction is displayed.
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Using a Graphing Calculator for Algebra
When calculating algebraic functions, sometimes it's nice to use a graphing calculator to get a picture of what the function looks like graphically. For instance, when analyzing functions dealing with rates of change, a graphing calculator is a quick and easy way to get a better visualization. Here's how to use a graphing calculator to better understand your algebraic functions.
Instructions:
1. Find a brand of graphing calculator that you feel comfortable with and that you find easy to use. For instance, if you are used to a Casio scientific calculator, try the Casio graphing calculator for algebraic problem solving. Ask your teacher for a recommendation on a band that is easiest to use that will also have the most functionality.
2. Take the time to go through the manual. Start with the "quick start" section to become familiar with how to enter exponents and other algebraic functions. If you don't do this, you'll get a different graphical output than the one expected.
3. Learn how to properly group numbers for the graphing calculator. Some use brackets, while others use parentheses. In algebra, you need to group numbers correctly to achieve the desired result.
4. Practice with a few functions in which you know the graphical output. For instance, put in a simple function of "f(x)=2x+1" and make sure the output is the familiar algebraic graph. This will help you gain confidence in your ability to use the graphing functionality and increase your trust that you've entered the function correctly.
5. Try online graphing calculators. These have the benefit of being free, although you won't be able to take them to class with you unless you're able to bring a laptop computer to class with you.
Instructions:
1. Find a brand of graphing calculator that you feel comfortable with and that you find easy to use. For instance, if you are used to a Casio scientific calculator, try the Casio graphing calculator for algebraic problem solving. Ask your teacher for a recommendation on a band that is easiest to use that will also have the most functionality.
2. Take the time to go through the manual. Start with the "quick start" section to become familiar with how to enter exponents and other algebraic functions. If you don't do this, you'll get a different graphical output than the one expected.
3. Learn how to properly group numbers for the graphing calculator. Some use brackets, while others use parentheses. In algebra, you need to group numbers correctly to achieve the desired result.
4. Practice with a few functions in which you know the graphical output. For instance, put in a simple function of "f(x)=2x+1" and make sure the output is the familiar algebraic graph. This will help you gain confidence in your ability to use the graphing functionality and increase your trust that you've entered the function correctly.
5. Try online graphing calculators. These have the benefit of being free, although you won't be able to take them to class with you unless you're able to bring a laptop computer to class with you.
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