As the SAT transitions to a fully digital format, students must now mandatorily get accustomed to and familiarize themselves with the latest tools involved in the process. One of the most significant updates is the built-in digital SAT calculator, which can be employed throughout the Math section of the exam. Having a better understanding of the workings of this calculator can provide you with a critical advantage during the SAT exam.

Let us go through everything you need to know, from the basic functionalities to the strategies of the digital SAT calculator, so that you can maximize your potential and performance during the SAT.

The Use of Calculators in the Digital SAT

As of 2024, the College Board has fully transitioned the SAT from a paper-based test to the digital format. The new exam is taken entirely on the app developed by the College Board called Bluebook, on which the test can be administered through approved devices. The digital SAT exam is divided into two sections: Reading & Writing and Math. Each section is further divided into 2 modules. The Math modules consist of 44 questions and are to be solved within 70 minutes in total. These math questions require the students to use calculators that can compute complex numbers and functions, and hence, the students are given access to the digital SAT calculator that is integrated with the Bluebook app. The SAT guidelines recommend that students use scientific and graphing calculators to perform basic and complex trigonometric functions such as sin, cos, and tan. The College Board also discourages the use of four-function calculators due to their limited functions, even though they are officially permitted.

Digital SAT Calculator

The digital SAT calculator that comes integrated with the Bluebook app is called Desmos, a powerful digital graphing calculator that helps students perform a wide range of mathematical operations. These include 

  • Basic arithmetic operations
  • Scientific functions 
  • Graph plotting 
  • Equation solving 
  • Table generations 
  • Visualization of math problems 

This digital calculator remains available to the students throughout the time they spend in the Math modules. The tool also helps in eradicating the division between calculator and non-calculator sections that were common in the traditional SAT exams. 

How To Access the Digital SAT Calculator

When attempting the Math section during the SAT, you’ll notice a calculator icon on the screen. Clicking on this icon will launch the digital SAT calculator. This will enable a split view so that you can simultaneously view the question and perform the calculations without further complications. This overview is designed to make problem-solving more efficient, as you don’t have to switch tabs or look away from the screen. 

The Desmos digital calculator is available for free on the official SAT practice platform on the standalone Desmos website. 

Key Features of the Digital SAT Calculator

The Desmos digital calculator comprises numerous tools and functionalities that can tackle a wide range of complex mathematical problems. The following are some of the basic features of the digital SAT calculator:

  • Graphing Equations: You can input linear, quadratic, or exponential equations to see their graphs. This tool is especially helpful for questions involving intercepts, roots, or symmetry. You can use this feature to check solutions visually and confirm accuracy.
  • Solving Systems of Equations: You can graph both equations and identify points of intersection with the digital calculator. This feature allows you to quickly visualize the solution to a system of linear equations without spending more time on lengthy algebraic manipulation.
  • Tables of Values: Use tables to explore functions or sequences. Desmos can auto-generate tables based on your input equations, making it easy for you to find the patterns and values efficiently.
  • Scientific Functions: Trigonometric, exponential, logarithmic, and square root functions are all standard in the Desmos calculator. These functions are crucial for more advanced problems on the SAT.
  • Syntax-Friendly Interface: The Desmos input system is intuitive. It automatically formats expressions correctly, which reduces input errors and streamlines problem-solving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using the SAT Digital Calculator

It is easy to make mistakes when you are not familiar with the interface. Therefore, we suggest that students familiarize themselves with the Desmos SAT calculator that is available for free on the website for students to use and learn. Not all questions require the high-level functionalities of a graphing calculator; therefore, ensure that you do not overuse the calculator and waste time wherever simple calculations are required. Make sure that you double-check your equations for input errors. Make use of the available rough papers to track multi-step problems so that you don’t end up making mistakes that can affect the final results. 

Best Practices for Using the Digital SAT Calculator

Time management is one of the most important factors to look out for when you are attempting SATs. Relying more on these tools can affect your time management and slow you down. Here are some points on how to effectively use the digital SAT calculator that can help you manage your time with ease:

  • Use Wisely: Use the calculator for only complex and time-consuming calculations, graphs, and complex functions; avoid using it for simple calculations that can be done mentally or on rough sheets provided. 
  • Practice with Desmos online: Before attempting the exam, spend ample time with Desmos while practicing SAT exams to make you more familiar with the interface. 
  • Zoom Feature: Desmos allows you to zoom in and out of the graphs; this helps in acquiring mathematical answers more precisely. 

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