Are Calculators Allowed on the GMAT & When Can You Use them?

Navigating the GMAT exam can be challenging, especially when it comes to knowing when and how to use the calculator effectively. While the Quantitative section tests your mental math skills, the Data Insights section provides a digital calculator to assist with complex calculations. Are you thinking about whether a calculator is allowed during the GMAT exam? Don’t worry. This blog will guide you through the proper usage of the GMAT calculator, ensuring you're prepared for the GMAT exam.

Key Highlights:

• An on-screen calculator is available for the Data Insights section of the GMAT exam but it is not available for the Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections.
• Personal calculators or external devices are not permitted inside the examination hall
• Make sure to familiarize yourself with the functions of calculator before the exam
  

Can I Use Calculator in the GMAT Exam?

In the GMAT Focus Edition, calculators are not permitted in the Quantitative section, which emphasizes problem-solving through mental math and manual calculations. However, you are allowed to use an on-screen calculator for the Data Insights section. This section, which merges Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency, allows calculator usage for specific types of questions that involve complex data analysis.

Ready to take your GMAT preparation up a notch? Join Yocket Prep to learn from experienced coaches who know what works!

Functions of Calculators in the GMAT Exam

It is important to learn all the functions of the calculator which is provided during the GMAT exam to use them quickly and efficiently. Here’s a photo of the calculator for your reference  and also a list of some of those function keys that you can expect to use the most often during your upcoming GMAT exam:

• Percentage (%): This function allows you to easily handle percentage-based calculations, including mixed operations like finding 10% of 200 and adding it directly.
• Square Root (SQRT): This button helps you quickly find the square root of the number shown on the display.
• Reciprocal (1/X): Pressing this key will calculate the reciprocal (or inverse) of the current number.
• Memory Store (MS): This function saves the displayed number into the calculator’s memory for later use.
• Memory Recall (MR): Use this to bring up the last number saved in memory, placing it back on the display.
• Memory Add (M+): This key lets you add the current number to the one already stored in memory, making it easier to work with longer calculations.
• Memory Clear (MC): This button clears all stored numbers from memory, resetting it for future use.

Tips for Efficient Calculator Usage During GMAT

When tackling the GMAT Focus Edition, efficient use of the on-screen calculator can be a game-changer, especially in the Data Insights section. While the calculator is helpful, knowing how to use it effectively can save you precious time and prevent costly errors. Below are some essential tips to maximize your calculator's potential during the exam.

• Familiarize Yourself with the Functions: Before the exam, practice using the calculator functions, such as percentage, square root, and memory keys, to become comfortable with their operation.
• Use Memory Functions Wisely: Take advantage of the memory store (MS), memory recall (MR), and memory addition (M+) keys to handle multi-step calculations without re-entering numbers repeatedly. This can save time and reduce errors.
• Double-Check Your Work: Even with the calculator, it’s important to review your calculations for accuracy. A quick check can help catch any mistakes, especially in complex equations.
• Prioritize Mental Math: While the calculator is useful, relying too heavily on it can slow you down. Use mental math for simpler calculations to keep up your pace.

Common Mistakes to avoid While Using Calculator on the GMAT Exam

When preparing for the GMAT, efficient calculator use is crucial while attempting the Data Insights section where an on-screen calculator is provided. However, relying too heavily on it or making simple errors can lead to mistakes that affect your score. Some of the common mistakes are mentioned below:

• Depending too much on the calculator for simple calculations can slow you down. 
• Input errors, such as mistyping numbers or operations, can lead to incorrect results. 
• Failing to use memory functions (like MS, MR, M+) can lead to repetitive calculations, wasting time and increasing the risk of mistakes.

How to Determine Whether You Need a Calculator for a Particular Question?

It is important to decide whether you need a calculator for a particular question or not because the GMAT is a time-bound exam where utilizing time perfectly is of utmost importance. Following are some of the factors that can determine whether you need a calculator for a particular question or not:

• If the question involves complex data analysis, multiple percentage calculations, or square roots.
• If the numbers in the question are large or involve decimals that are difficult to work with mentally.
• If the problem requires multiple steps or intermediate calculations, a calculator can help manage and streamline these processes.

Strategies to Ace the GMAT Quant Section Without a Calculator

The GMAT Quant section can feel challenging, especially without the convenience of a calculator. However, with the right approach and preparation, you can tackle this section with confidence. Below are several strategies to help you excel in the GMAT Quant section, even without a calculator:

• Master Mental Math & Estimation: Since you won’t have a calculator, honing your mental math skills is crucial. Focus on mastering basic arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Know Key Concepts Thoroughly: Spend time revising formulas and principles frequently tested, such as the Pythagorean theorem, area/volume formulas, and properties of numbers
• Develop Strong Problem-Solving Skills: Focusing on understanding how to approach different types of problems can boost your score. Analyze each problem to see if there's a logical approach that can save time.
• Practice Regularly Under Exam Conditions: Simulate test-day conditions by practicing without a calculator. Use timed practice tests to build your speed and comfort with mental math. Analyze your mistakes afterward to target areas of improvement.

From the Desk of Yocket

Mastering the GMAT calculator is a key part of succeeding in the Data Insights section, helping you handle complex calculations. Remember, knowing when and how to use the calculator can improve your performance. By following the tips and avoiding common mistakes discussed in this blog, you'll be well-equipped to approach calculator usage during the GMAT exam.

If you're aiming to fine-tune your GMAT strategy, checkout Yocket Prep. Our team will provide personalized advice and actionable plan to help you achieve your target score. Take this step towards your GMAT success and secure your future today!