As was previously mentioned, using a calculator is a key component to getting the highest score possible on the math section of the SAT. Because of its importance when taking the SAT, it is a good idea to become familiar with using it. The easiest way to do this is to use it often for the weeks leading up to the test. The more a calculator is used, the more comfortable and easy to use it will become for a person. For example, the location of the + and * buttons should be noted carefully so that one is not pressed instead of the other, which can offer up quite a different answer, but more importantly a wrong answer which will lower your overall score.
There are advanced functions like square root, cube root and parentheses that are needed. However, it should be noted that a graphing calculator is not needed, although they are allowed when taking the test. Also important to note is that batteries are usually taken out of a calculator to clear the memory before a test is taken so that there is no cheating when taking the test.
Another thing that is important to remember when using a calculator for the SAT math section is that hitting the wrong button - a 5 instead of a 6 for instance - is common. Because of this, it is a good idea to enter numbers slowly and double check them. Being familiar with the calculator being used helps make this easier and quicker, which is important when taking a timed test. For those that do use a graphing calculator, it is recommended to not clear the screen but keep old work around so that it can be referred to if needed when double checking work at the end of the test if there is time.
The last thing to take note of when using a calculator with the math portion of the SAT test is that most only display around 10 digits. However, on the SAT test, most answers are only three or four digits long. When this happens, it is important to read the question carefully to see whether the answer is meant to be rounded up. Additionally, a person should never round up when not specifically instructed to do so in the text of the question. As always, it should be noted that the makers of the SAT math test intentionally try to trick the person taking the test and this is one way in which they routinely do it.
Using a calculator during the SAT math portion makes it a little easier, but there are also pitfalls that should be avoided. By knowing what they are and working to avoid them, a person can really increase their overall math score on the SAT. From becoming familiar with the calculator to using it slowly and carefully, there are a lot of actions that can be taken to increase the odds of getting a high score on the math section of the SAT.
