Can I use my own calculator on the GRE?

No. You are only permitted to use the on-screen calculator provided by the GRE testing software. Personal calculators are not allowed.

Is the calculator available in all GRE sections?

No. The calculator is only available during the two Quantitative Reasoning sections. It is not provided for the Verbal Reasoning or Analytical Writing sections.

What are the main functions missing from the GRE calculator?

The GRE calculator cannot perform exponent calculations, trigonometric functions, or use constants like pi (π). It also does not accept or display numbers in scientific notation.

How do I practice with the real GRE calculator before my test?

You must use the official GRE PowerPrep Online practice tests from ETS. These practice tests feature the exact same calculator interface you will encounter on your actual exam day.

GRE Calculator: How to Use It Effectively on Test Day?

GRE Score

Over 700,000 graduate school candidates take the GRE each year, facing a critical decision in the math section: when to calculate by hand and when to use the provided tool. The GRE on-screen calculator is a basic digital tool available only during the Quantitative Reasoning sections. You cannot use your own calculator, so mastering this specific tool is a strategic part of achieving a high score. This guide provides the latest, most accurate information and actionable strategies to use it effectively.

Key Highlights:

Only the GRE on-screen calculator is allowed in the Quantitative Reasoning section; personal calculators are not permitted.
The GRE calculator should be used strategically for complex calculations, not for simple arithmetic or estimation.
The GRE calculator has clear limitations, including no exponents, no trigonometric functions, and no nested parentheses.

Interactive GRE Calculator

The GRE provides a standard on-screen calculator during both GRE Quantitative Reasoning sections. This is the only calculator you are permitted to use; personal or handheld calculators are strictly prohibited. It is a simple four-function calculator with additional features like square root and a memory function. You can open, close, and move its window on your screen as needed during the math sections.

This is what the on-screen calculator provided during the GRE quantitative reasoning section looks like:

GRE On-Screen Calculator Interface Breakdown

Every button on the GRE calculator has a specific purpose. Understanding this interface in detail prevents fumbling and saves time during your test.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the GRE calculator interface:

Button / Feature	Primary Function	Key Pro Tip for Use
Display Area	Shows your input and calculation results.	It only shows 8 digits. An "Error" means your number is too long; you need a different approach.
C (Clear)	Clears the entire current input.	Use this to start a completely new calculation from zero.
CE (Clear Entry)	Clears the last number or operation you entered.	Ideal for fixing a single typo without resetting your entire multi-step calculation.
Memory Buttons (M+, MR, MC)	Stores and recalls a single number. M+ adds to memory.	The M indicator lights up when a value is stored. Remember, M+ adds; it does not store a new number unless you use MC first.
Square Root (√)	Calculates the principal square root of the displayed number.	It will return an "Error" for negative numbers. For non-perfect squares, it provides a decimal approximation.
Parentheses ( )	Group parts of an equation to dictate the order of calculation.	The calculator does not support nested parentheses. You must simplify expressions to use only one set.
Sign Change (+/-)	Toggles the number on display between positive and negative.	You must use this button. Typing a minus sign (-) will initiate a subtraction operation instead.

Also Read: How Many Mock Tests Should You Take Before the GRE?

How to Use GRE Calculator

You use the GRE calculator by clicking its icon to open it within the test interface. To use it with maximum efficiency, you must master its specific mechanics beyond simple button-clicking.

Here are the core techniques for proficient use:

Keyboard Shortcuts for Speed: Use your computer's keyboard for faster input. The number keys, plus +, -, *, /, and Enter work as their on-screen equivalents. This method is significantly faster than using your mouse.
Leverage the Transfer Display Button: For Numeric Entry questions, a special Transfer Display button appears. Clicking it automatically pipes the number from the calculator screen into the answer box. This prevents manual typing errors and is a major time-saver.
Apply Order of Operations Manually: The calculator follows PEMDAS rules but does not support nested parentheses. You must break down complex expressions like (5 + (3*2)) into separate steps, using the memory function or your scratch paper for intermediate results.

Also read: When to Start Preparing for the GRE?

GRE Calculator Features and Limitations

Knowing the exact scope of the GRE calculator's abilities allows you to plan your problem-solving strategy effectively. Its limitations are just as important as its features.

The calculator's design pushes you to rely on mathematical reasoning over brute-force computation. Here is a clear list of what it can and cannot do.

Core Features You Can Use:

Basic Arithmetic Operations: It reliably performs addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Square Root Function: This provides a decimal answer for any non-negative number.
Single-Value Memory: Useful for holding an interim result from a multi-step problem.
Order of Operations (PEMDAS): It correctly calculates expressions like 3 + 4 * 5 as 23, not 35.

Critical Limitations to Remember:

No Advanced Functions: It cannot calculate exponents (e.g., 7^3), logarithms, pi (π), or any trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, etc.).
Digit Display Cap: The 8-digit limit means it cannot display numbers like 100,000,000. An error here signals you should estimate or simplify.
No Nested Parentheses: You cannot calculate an expression like (4 / (2+2)) in one go. You must first calculate (2+2) separately.
No Calculation History: You cannot scroll back to see previous steps. Use your scratch paper to track your work.

When To Use the GRE Calculator

Use the calculator as a precision tool for specific, well-defined tasks. It is ideal for tedious arithmetic that is prone to mental error.

Lengthy Decimal Calculations: For problems involving multi-digit decimals, like 34.56 * 12.07, the calculator ensures accuracy.
Square Roots of Non-Perfect Squares: Quickly find values like √50 or √120 without manual estimation.
Data Interpretation Computations: When a graph or chart requires you to calculate percentages, ratios, or averages from large numbers.
Final Verification: Use it to double-check the answer you arrived at through mental math or estimation, confirming your result before submitting.

When To Avoid the GRE Calculator

Using the calculator for simple tasks wastes time and increases the risk of input mistakes. Your mental math is often faster and safer.

Simple Arithmetic: Calculations like 17 * 5, 240 / 12, or √81 should be instantaneous in your mind.
Estimation-Centric Problems: If answer choices are far apart (e.g., 15, 150, 1500), a quick round-and-estimate approach is sufficient and faster.
Conceptual or Algebraic Questions: Many questions test properties of numbers, algebra, or logical setup. If the path to the answer is an equation like x + 2x = 36, solving for x mentally is the point.
Finding Patterns or Unit Digits: The calculator cannot help with questions like "what is the units digit of 7^24?" This requires knowledge of cyclicity.

GRE Calculator Practice

Effective practice with the GRE calculator integrates it into your overall quantitative reasoning drill. The objective is to build unconscious competence so its use is automatic and efficient on test day.

You must practice with the authentic tool. Here is a targeted plan to build your skills.

Simulate Real Conditions with PowerPrep: The official ETS GRE PowerPrep practice tests are the only source that provides the identical calculator. Make these tests the cornerstone of your practice.
Conduct Focused Drills: During your practice sessions, consciously categorise each calculation. Ask yourself, "Is this a calculator problem or a mental math problem?" Time these drills to build decision-making speed.
Master Data Interpretation Sets: These question types are calculator-intensive. Practice pulling numbers from charts, performing multi-step calculations (like percent change or average), and using the Transfer Display button for your final answer.
Try This Strategy Drill: For the following expressions, decide your approach before calculating.

1. (124 + 256) / 19 → Verdict: Use the calculator. The division will likely result in a non-integer.
2. 75% of 280 → Verdict: Mental math. Think: (3/4)*280 = 210.
3. Compare √65 and 8.1 → Verdict: Mental estimate. You know √64 = 8, so √65 is just above 8, less than 8.1.

Suggested: GRE Self-Preparation

From the Desk of Yocket

Think of the GRE on-screen calculator as a strategic tool, not a solution for every problem. Its value lies in handling complex calculations while you focus on reasoning. By practicing smart calculator use with Yocket Prep, you build efficiency and confidence so you’re ready to perform at your best on test day.