Whether you’re sitting your first standardised testing paper or gearing up for final exams, having the right calculator at your side can make a significant difference. But simply owning a calculator is only half the equation. To get the most from it, you need to understand how to use it effectively. Below, we share practical Casio calculator tips and tricks to help you prepare confidently and perform at your best on exam day.

Why are Casio calculators exam essentials?

From scientific models suited to high school exams to advanced graphic calculators for complex maths, there’s a Casio calculator for every level.

Widely approved for Australian exams, models like the fx-82AU PLUS II 2nd edition and fx-100AU PLUS 2nd edition fx-8200 AU are reliable options for general use. Be sure to check approvals for the State or Territory you live in, but Casio scientific calculators (like the fx-8200 AU) can be used across general, essential or foundation level maths as well as biology or physicals. For students tackling higher-level content, the fx-CP400 ClassPad II CAS calculator offers touchscreen functionality, graphing, algebraic manipulation and more.

The soon to be released (at the time of this article being published) fx-1AU GRAPH is Casio new graphing calculator, and offers the same navigation functionality as the fx-8200 AU scientific calculator. Why is this useful? If you live in a state or territory that uses graphics calculators, you won’t have to learn new navigation once you progress to higher level mathematics.

Make sure your calculator batteries are new

Before your exam, especially if using a Casio CAS or graphics calculator, make sure you change your batteries. It never hurts to have a fresh pair. Casio CAS and graphing calculator take 4 x AAAA batteries. If you live in a hot climate, make sure you don’t leave your batteries in your calculator over the summer break.

Know what’s allowed in standardised testing

Always check which calculators are allowed in the State or Territory you live in. For most standardised testing in Australia, including the HSC and NAPLAN, only certain Casio calculators are approved. Each State and Territory has a different set of guidelines for technology use, especially during exams. You will most likely already be aware of which calculator you can use, or have consulted your school’s stationary, or perhaps on campus bookshop list during the start of Term 1. Please check your relevant approval body for the state or territory you live in if you are unsure which calculator you are allowed to use in school examinations.

Start with early exam preparation

Effective exam preparation starts well before the day of the test. Set aside time to get comfortable with your calculator’s layout, functions and modes. Cramming shortcuts the night before can add unnecessary stress.

Begin by mastering basic calculations, then gradually explore advanced features. Casio’s free how-to manuals cover everything from arithmetic to graph plotting and probability apps, making them ideal resources for revision and practice. We also have a set of exam resources with worked solutions to previous years mathematics exams. These videos and books use past QCAA, SACE and VCE questions.

Top Casio calculator tips and tricks

Knowing how to use your calculator properly can help you stay calm and save time during exams. These calculator tips and tricks are easy to learn and make a real difference on the day.

• Switch modes confidently

Casio calculators have different modes for tasks like statistics, solving equations or working with complex numbers. Practice switching between them so you don’t waste time during the exam.

• Use the replay function

Did you make a mistake or want to check your work? Use the replay button to scroll back through previous calculations. You can fix errors without starting over.

• Learn shortcuts

Casio calculators have many shortcuts, including numbered menus for fx-1AU GRAPH and fx-CP400. This helps save time by pressing the number for the command you want instead of scrolling. You should also note the soft keyboard commands on your calculator (highlighted by a different colour in the top left or right corner of each key). Pressing the SHIFT or ALPHA key will execute these commands.

• Expand values

When using apps like Statistics or Table, the results might be shortened. Click on them to view the full decimal before rounding, so your final answer is as accurate as possible.

• Using exam mode on your calculator

Some exams, especially the IBDP curriculum, require you to place your calculator into exam mode before taking your exam. On the new graphics calculator, the fx-1AU GRAPH, exam mode is the final icon on your menu screen. Scroll, or press ‘ALPHA’, then the letter ‘J’ to quickly access.

Test-taking strategies using your calculator

Using your calculator the right way is part of your overall test-taking strategy. It can help you work more efficiently, reduce mistakes and stay focused.

Stick to what you know

In an exam, it’s best to use the features you’ve practised. If you’re not sure how something works, move on to another question and come back to questions you’re not sure about at the end.

Practice under timed conditions

A vital part of exam preparation is practising under exam-like conditions. Work through past papers using only your calculator and the tools allowed in the real test. This builds confidence, accuracy and speed.

Explore our full range of Casio calculators today

By combining thoughtful exam preparation, practical calculator tips and tricks and strong test-taking strategies, you can walk into your next standardised testing session ready to succeed. Shop the full range of Casio education calculators online, designed for Australian education. If you have a question on how your calculator works, don’t hesitate to email us at edusupport@shriro.com.au.