The Calculator
Unlike the SAT I, in which a calculator is permitted
but not essential to the test, the Math IC test demands the use
of a calculator. In fact, that’s what the “C” in IC stands for.
Some questions on the test are specifically designed to test your
calculator-using skills.
It is therefore wise to learn all the essentials
about calculators before taking SAT II Math IC. First, make sure
you have the right type of calculator. Virtually any calculator
are may be used during the test, including programmable and graphing
calculators. Laptops, minicomputers, or any machine that prints,
makes noise, or needs to be plugged in are prohibited.
Whatever calculator you use for the test should have all
the following functions:
- Exponential powers
- Base-10 logarithms
- Sine, cosine, tangent
Make sure you practice each of these functions on your
calculator before taking the test. We tell you more about how to
use calculators for the test in the next chapter.
