Can You Use A Calculator On The Gre

GRE Calculator Availability Checker

Select a GRE section to see if a calculator is provided and what type.

What is the Policy on “Can You Use a Calculator on the GRE”?

The question, “can you use a calculator on the GRE?”, is a common one among test-takers. The answer is yes, but only in specific sections and only the calculator provided by the testing software. You are NOT allowed to bring your own physical calculator to the GRE General Test.

The GRE provides an on-screen calculator for the Quantitative Reasoning sections only. This is a basic calculator with functions for addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and square root, plus a memory function and the ability to change the sign of a number.

For the Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing sections, no calculator is provided, nor are you allowed to use one. The questions in these sections do not require numerical calculations.

Who Should Know This?

Anyone preparing for the GRE General Test must understand the calculator policy to prepare effectively. Knowing when and how the calculator is available helps in strategizing for the Quantitative Reasoning sections.

Common Misconceptions

• Misconception 1: You can bring your own calculator. (False – only the on-screen calculator is allowed).
• Misconception 2: The calculator is available for all sections. (False – only for Quantitative Reasoning).
• Misconception 3: The on-screen calculator is a scientific calculator. (False – it’s a basic calculator).

GRE Calculator Availability Rules

The “formula” for whether you can use a calculator on the GRE is very simple:

• If the section is Quantitative Reasoning, then YES, an on-screen calculator is available.
• If the section is Verbal Reasoning or Analytical Writing, then NO, no calculator is available or permitted.

The on-screen calculator is designed to be a tool, but the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section primarily tests your reasoning skills, not complex computation. Many questions can be solved more quickly with estimation or number sense than with the calculator.

GRE Calculator Availability by Section

GRE Section	Calculator Available?	Calculator Type
Quantitative Reasoning	Yes	On-screen (basic 4-function + square root)
Verbal Reasoning	No	Not applicable
Analytical Writing (AWA)	No	Not applicable

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

Example 1: During Quantitative Reasoning

You are working on a Quantitative Reasoning problem that requires you to find the value of (√83) * 5. You would click the calculator icon, enter 83, click the square root button, and then multiply by 5. The calculator helps with the precise calculation after you’ve set up the problem.

Example 2: During Verbal Reasoning

You are answering a Reading Comprehension question. You wonder about the numerical difference between two dates mentioned. You cannot use a calculator here. You must rely on mental math or simply understand the context without precise calculation if it’s not required.

How to Use This Calculator Availability Checker

Our tool above helps you quickly confirm whether you can use a calculator on the GRE for a specific section:

1. Select the Section: Choose “Quantitative Reasoning,” “Verbal Reasoning,” or “Analytical Writing” from the dropdown menu.
2. View Results: The tool instantly displays whether a calculator is available, its type, and a recommendation.
3. Check the Chart: The bar chart visually confirms the availability for the selected section.
4. Reset: Click “Reset” to go back to the default selection.
5. Copy: Click “Copy Results” to copy the information displayed.

Understanding this is crucial before test day so you’re not surprised.

Key Factors That Affect Whether You Can Use a Calculator on the GRE

The primary factor determining if you can use a calculator on the GRE is the section of the test you are in.

• Test Section: As established, only Quantitative Reasoning allows the on-screen calculator.
• Question Type: Even within Quant, some questions are designed to be solved faster without the calculator, using logic or estimation.
• Time Management: Over-reliance on the calculator for simple arithmetic can waste precious time.
• Calculator Familiarity: Practicing with the on-screen calculator’s interface before the test is vital to use it efficiently.
• Test Format: The GRE General Test is computer-delivered, which allows for the provision of an on-screen calculator.
• ETS Policy: The Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the GRE, sets the rules regarding calculator use. Their policy dictates the availability and type.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bring my own calculator to the GRE?

No, you are not allowed to bring your own calculator, watch with a calculator, or any other electronic device into the testing room, except for authorized items.

Is the GRE calculator scientific?

No, the on-screen calculator provided during the GRE Quantitative Reasoning sections is a basic four-function calculator with a square root function and memory.

When should I use the calculator on the GRE Quant section?

Use the calculator for calculations that are tedious or difficult to do mentally, such as multiplying or dividing numbers with multiple digits, or finding square roots of non-perfect squares. Avoid it for simple arithmetic you can do quickly in your head or on scratch paper.

Does everyone get the same calculator on the GRE?

Yes, everyone taking the computer-delivered GRE General Test has access to the same standard on-screen calculator during the Quantitative Reasoning sections.

Can you use a calculator on the GRE at home?

If you are taking the GRE General Test at home, the same rules apply. An on-screen calculator is provided during the Quantitative Reasoning sections through the test software. You cannot use your own physical calculator.

What happens if I try to use my own calculator?

If you are caught using an unauthorized calculator or device, your scores may be canceled, and you could be barred from future testing.

Is there a calculator on the GRE Subject Tests?

Calculator policies for GRE Subject Tests vary by subject. For example, the Physics and Chemistry tests may allow or provide specific types of calculators, while others like Literature in English do not. Always check the specific Subject Test’s guidelines.

How can I practice with the GRE on-screen calculator?

The ETS POWERPREP practice tests include the on-screen calculator, allowing you to get familiar with its functionality before test day. This is highly recommended to understand how it works and its limitations.