How to Use a Scientific Calculator
A scientific calculator extends basic arithmetic with mathematical functions for science, engineering and higher mathematics. The key additions include trigonometric functions, logarithms, powers, roots, factorials and mathematical constants like π and e.
Degrees vs Radians
Trigonometric functions work in either degrees or radians. Degrees use the familiar 0–360° scale. Radians use 0–2π (≈6.283) for a full circle. Use the DEG/RAD toggle above. In mathematics and physics, radians are preferred. For everyday angle problems, degrees are more intuitive. Always check which mode you're in — sin(90) in degrees = 1, but sin(90) in radians ≈ 0.894.
Order of Operations
This calculator follows BODMAS/PEMDAS: Brackets first, then powers, then multiplication/division (left to right), then addition/subtraction (left to right). Enter expressions as written mathematically — 3 + 4 × 2 = 11, not 14. Use parentheses to control calculation order when needed.
Memory Functions
MS (Memory Store) saves the current displayed value. MR (Memory Recall) inserts the stored value into your expression. This is useful for multi-step calculations where you need to reuse an intermediate result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between sin, cos and tan?
Sin, cos and tan are trigonometric functions. In a right-angled triangle: sin = opposite ÷ hypotenuse, cos = adjacent ÷ hypotenuse, tan = opposite ÷ adjacent (or sin ÷ cos). They are used constantly in physics, engineering, navigation and wave calculations. The inverse functions (asin, acos, atan) convert a ratio back to an angle.
What does log vs ln mean?
log uses base 10: log(1000) = 3 because 10³ = 1000. ln uses base e (≈2.718, Euler's number): ln(e) = 1. ln is used extensively in calculus, probability and finance. log is used in pH, decibels, the Richter scale and computer science (binary logarithm = log₂).
How do I calculate a square root?
Use the √ button, or raise to the power 0.5. √144 = 12. For cube roots, use ∛ or raise to the power 1/3. For any nth root, raise to the power 1/n. Our calculator supports all of these.
What is BODMAS/PEMDAS?
The order of operations: Brackets/Parentheses first, then Orders/Exponents (powers and roots), then Division and Multiplication (left to right), then Addition and Subtraction (left to right). This is the universal convention ensuring everyone gets the same answer for the same expression.
What does EXP mean on a calculator?
EXP calculates e raised to the power x — it's the exponential function e^x. EXP(1) = e ≈ 2.718, EXP(2) ≈ 7.389. It is the inverse of ln (natural log). Used in compound interest, population growth and probability distributions.