GRE On-Screen Calculator: How to Use It – In Detailed Explanation
Preparing for the GRE General Test can feel challenging at times, but with the right strategy and guidance, you can hit your target score- no matter what your proficiency in math may be. A key part of this strategy is mastering the use of GRE’s ‘On Screen’ calculator, which is a feature on the Quant sections of the test. This simple yet effective built-in tool can make a massive difference in improving your speed and accuracy during the test.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about GRE’s ‘On screen’ calculator right from its basic functions to some of its unique features. We’ll also share smart tips on using the calculator more efficiently.
A Quick Intro to the GRE General Test
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) General Test is essential in your journey towards a good graduate/doctoral program across the globe. GRE scores are widely accepted by a variety of programs in top universities for admission to their Master’s and PhD programs. Considering the diversity of schools that accept the GRE, questions on the GRE General Test are not technical or subject-specific. The test assesses multiple skills through three sections – Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Assessment. A good GRE score is also one of the key parameters considered by universities while granting scholarships and fellowships.
GRE General Test Pattern
| Section | Number of Tasks/questions | Sectional Time |
| GRE Analytical Writing (1 Section) | One “Analyze an Issue” task | 30 minutes |
| GRE Quantitative Reasoning (2 Sections) | Section 1: 12 questions
2: 15 questions |
Section 1: 21 minutes 2: 26 minutes |
| GRE Verbal Reasoning (2 Sections) | Section 1: 12 questions
2: 15 questions |
Section 1: 18 minutes
2: 23 minutes |
| Total Duration | — | 1 hour 58 minutes |
Please note that there are no breaks provided during the test.
As you can see, if you do well in the first section and happen to go to the more difficult second section, then there is no way you will get a score that is below 149, even if you get many questions wrong in the harder section. Likewise, if you muck up your first section and go to a somewhat easier second section, then you won’t cross the threshold of 151 even if your responses to all the questions are spot on in the easier section.
So, yes, the harder section is a reward.
To answer these questions wholly and substantially, we first need to take a deep dive into the Math/Quantitative section of the aforementioned exam.
GRE Quantitative Section Overview
| Category | Details |
| Topics Covered | – Arithmetic: Order of Operations, Percentages, Ratios, Proportions
– Algebra: Equations, Inequalities, Exponents, Functions, Sequences, Coordinate Geometry – Geometry: Lines, Angles, Triangles, Circles, Quadrilaterals, Basic 3D Geometry – Data Analysis: Statistics, Probability, Graphs, Data interpretation ❌ No trigonometry, calculus, or advanced engineering math |
| Level of Difficulty | – Focus on quantitative reasoning rather than advanced math
– Questions range from easy to moderately difficult – Tests ability to analyze data, apply core math concepts, and reason logically – Emphasis on the application of fundamentals rather than complex theories |
| Question Types | 1. Multiple Choice Questions (Single Answer): 1 correct option out of 5 (◯ oval marker)
2. Multiple Choice Questions (Multiple Answers): 1 or more correct options out of 3–10 (☑ checkboxes) 3. Quantitative Comparisons: Compare Quantity A & B, choose 1 out of 4 options (◯ oval marker) 4. Numeric Entry: Enter exact number using on-screen keypad (blank boxes ☐) |
| Calculator Use | – Physical calculators NOT allowed
– A basic on-screen ETS calculator is provided during the test |
GRE Calculator Features and Limitations
The ‘On screen’ calculator provided on the GRE is quite basic- similar to a simple calculator app you might find on your mobile phone. However, its functions extend beyond a basic calculator, making it essential to understand how the GRE ‘on-screen’ calculator works before test day.
Key Features
- Input Methods: You can enter numbers using either your keyboard or mouse. Using the keyboard is usually faster and more accurate, but it’s best to practice on both to determine what works best for you.
- Order of operations: The calculator follows the PEMDAS rule. For example, entering 2+3*4 will return 14 instead of 20, unlike some basic calculators, which process strictly left to right.
- Memory function (M+): Pressing M+ repeatedly adds the current display value to the memory rather than replacing it. For example, if 40 is stored in memory and 9 is on display, pressing M+ will store 49 in memory, and not override it.
Limitations
- Only 8 digits displayed: The GRE calculator can’t handle numbers longer than 8 digits (e.g., 123, 456, 789), so you’ll often need to solve such problems manually.
- No nested parentheses: You can only use one set at a time. For problems like 3*(5- (1+2)), you’ll have to simplify step by step before entering it.
- Small interface: On test day, the GRE on-screen calculator will appear much smaller than in practice versions, so it’s important to get comfortable using it in a limited space.
How do you use a GRE calculator?
However, what is most important is to understand that the calculator has to be used selectively and judiciously. Not all questions require a calculator for you to solve them. As there will be a time crunch in the exam, you should use the calculator only in those questions where it saves you time. Now, would a calculator always save time? That is an excellent question. However, the short answer is no.
Let us understand this with the help of an example.
- x + 5 = 13, find the value of x?
Likewise,
400010 or 225 or 502 or (2)(120)
- When tackling chart and table-based questions, it is crucial to determine whether to calculate or approximate as part of the solving strategy. Comparing fractional values with complex denominators, such as 53 and 37, can be efficiently done using a calculator, as these types of problems are inherently time-consuming due to the data provided in the question, which requires careful comprehension.
Consider the following example: Let’s assume you need to identify the answer choice with the most significant percentage increase, and you have obtained the following values for each answer option:
When analyzing the options, it becomes evident that options A and C can be eliminated due to their large denominators in comparison to options B and E. Additionally, option D was excluded based on manual calculations, as it yielded a negative value. Now, the decision lies between options B and D, where the denominators are relatively close.
Employing more mental math strategies might become tiresome, but a skilled test taker recognizes that this is the opportune moment to switch to an on-screen calculator. By utilizing a calculator, one can quickly divide and compare the two options.
In the first case, do you really need a calculator? No, right?. However, in the second scenario, a calculator would make the calculations easier and save time.
Remember to review and familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines provided by ETS regarding calculator usage in the GRE to ensure you are well-prepared on test day.
GRE Calculator Strategy
| Strategy | How It Helps |
| 1. Prioritise Mental Math | Use mental math for simple problems (e.g., 4 × 8, 2400 ÷ 3) instead of relying on the GRE calculator for all math. This saves time and reduces typing mistakes. |
| 2. Use the Keyboard | Enter numbers directly using the keyboard for speed. Shortcuts like *, +, -, /, and Enter are faster than clicking with the mouse. Note that Backspace or Delete won’t clear the display. |
| 3. Master Order of Operations (PEMDAS) | Apply parentheses carefully or break problems into steps on your scratch paper. This ensures accurate results and helps avoid common mistakes with the GRE on-screen calculator. |
| 4. Watch Out for Error Messages | If the calculator gives an error (like exceeding 8 digits), the GRE question is solvable by logic or rules (e.g., exponent rules). Use reasoning, not brute force. |
| 5. Estimate Before Calculating | Make a quick mental estimate before entering values into the GRE calculator online. Compare your estimate with the calculator output to catch typos or misreads. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the GRE score calculated?
The GRE score is calculated by converting your raw scores (number of correct answers) into scaled scores. Both Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning are scored on a 130–170 scale, while the Analytical Writing section is scored on a 0–6 scale. Your total GRE score is the sum of the Verbal and Quantitative scores, ranging from 260 to 340.
When should I use the calculator in the GRE?
You should use the on-screen GRE calculator for problems involving large numbers, fractions, decimals, or square roots. Mental math or scratch paper is faster and less error-prone for simple calculations like 15 × 20 or 2400 ÷ 3. The key is to balance speed with accuracy.
What are the most common mistakes when using the GRE calculator?
The most common mistakes when using the GRE calculator include overusing it for simple math that can be done mentally, ignoring the order of operations (PEMDAS) when entering expressions, making typing errors by rushing, skipping estimation before calculating, and misinterpreting error messages such as digit overflow instead of simplifying the problem.
