1. As a prospective graduate student preparing for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), one of the most pressing questions that often arises is, "Can I use a calculator for the GRE?" This question speaks to the heart of test preparation and can significantly influence study strategies for many test-takers, including myself. In this article, I will explore the calculator policy of the GRE, offer detailed insights into the types of questions you will encounter, and discuss how to effectively prepare for math-related sections of the exam.
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3.  The Calculator Policy on the GRE
4.  Firstly, the policy regarding calculator use on the GRE is straightforward: you cannot bring or use your own calculator during the exam. This can be shocking for many students familiar with high school math classes, where calculators are often used to ease calculations. Instead, the GRE provides a basic on-screen calculator for use in specific sections of the test.
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6.  The GRE test is divided into three main sections:
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9.  Verbal Reasoning
10.  Quantitative Reasoning
11.  Analytical Writing
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13.  The on-screen calculator is only available during the Quantitative Reasoning section. For those of us concerned about the limitations of this calculator, it’s essential to understand its function and how best to leverage it during the exam.
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15.  The Role of the On-Screen Calculator
16.  The on-screen calculator provided on the GRE is not a scientific or graphing calculator; it has basic functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Understanding its limitations can help you strategize your approach. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
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53.  Feature Available? Addition Yes Subtraction Yes Multiplication Yes Division Yes Exponents No Square Roots No Memory Functions No
54.  Why You Shouldn’t Rely Solely on the Calculator
55.  While the on-screen calculator is handy, I quickly learned that it shouldn't be relied upon entirely. The GRE is designed to assess both quantitative reasoning skills and analytical thinking. Here are some reasons to consider:
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58.  Time Management: The GRE is a timed test, and spending too much time on calculation can lead to incomplete sections.
59.  Understanding Concepts: Developing a strong grasp of mathematical concepts means you may not need to use the calculator for every problem.
60.  Calculator Errors: It's easy to make mistakes when entering numbers on a small on-screen device, especially under the pressure of time.
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62.  Preparing for the GRE Quantitative Reasoning Section
63.  The Quantitative Reasoning section contains two parts, each with a variety of question types. While the calculator can help with some questions, you still need to be adept in mental math and quick calculations. Here are some tips for preparing:
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65.  1. Familiarize Yourself with Question Types
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67.  Quantitative Comparison: Visualize relationships between quantities and compare them.
68.  Multiple-choice Questions: Choose one answer from several options.
69.  Numeric Entry: Input your answer into a blank field.
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72.  2. Practice Mental Math
73.  To minimize reliance on the on-screen calculator, I dedicated time to practicing mental math techniques, including:
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76.  Breaking down complicated calculations into simpler parts.
77.  Estimating answers rather than calculating exact figures.
78.  Familiarity with common fractions, percentages, and their decimal equivalents.
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80.  3. Utilize Practice Resources
81.  Numerous resources are available to help you prepare for the Quantitative Reasoning section:
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84.  Official GRE Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and timing.
85.  GRE Prep Books: Many contain practice problems and explanations.
86.  Online Platforms: Websites like Khan Academy and various GRE prep courses provide helpful tools.
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88.  Relevant Quotations
89.  As Thomas Edison said,
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92.  “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.”
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95.  This quote underscores the importance of hard work, especially in test preparation.
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97.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
98.  1. Can I bring my own calculator for the GRE?
99. No, you cannot bring your own calculator; you must use the on-screen version provided during the exam.
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101.  2. When can I use the on-screen calculator?
102. You can use the on-screen calculator during the Quantitative Reasoning section only.
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104.  3. What if I don’t understand how to use the on-screen calculator?
105. There will be a tutorial at the beginning of the GRE to help familiarize you with the on-screen calculator.
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107.  4. Are there any parts of the exam where I can’t use a calculator?
108. You cannot use a calculator during the Verbal Reasoning or Analytical Writing sections.
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110.  Conclusion
111.  In preparing for the GRE, I have advocated a balanced approach to using the on-screen calculator while also honing my mental math skills and conceptual understanding. https://output.jsbin.com/posoxedupu/ with the types of questions and efficient time management strategies transformed my study sessions into more productive experiences. I hope to convey the sentiment that the GRE, while rigorous, offers an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills I have cultivated during my academic journey. With careful preparation, I believe any prospective test-taker can conquer the math section of the GRE — calculator or not.
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113.  By employing the strategies we discussed and maintaining a focus on effective preparation, you, too, can approach your GRE with confidence.
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117. My website: https://output.jsbin.com/posoxedupu/