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.
