The short answer is yes. For the computer-delivered GRE General Test, ETS provides an on-screen basic calculator that you may use during the Quantitative Reasoning sections. You may not bring your own calculator or use any electronic device for calculations. Calculators are not available for the Verbal Reasoning or Analytical Writing sections.
Quick overview: where a calculator is allowed
- Quantitative Reasoning sections (computer-delivered): an on-screen basic calculator is available.
- Analytical Writing and Verbal Reasoning: no calculator is permitted or needed.
- Paper-delivered administrations: ETS supplies a basic calculator if a calculator is allowed for the paper format; test takers may not bring personal calculators.
- Personal devices: cell phones, smart watches, and personal calculators are not allowed in the test room.
What kind of calculator does ETS provide?
ETS supplies a simple calculator only. It performs basic arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and typically square-root. The tool is intended to assist routine computations. It does not offer advanced scientific, graphing, algebraic manipulation, or programming functions.
Why ETS uses a basic calculator
- To keep the Quantitative Reasoning section focused on reasoning and problem solving rather than complicated computation.
- To ensure fairness across test takers and locations, by providing a uniform tool rather than permitting many different calculator models.
When you should use the calculator
Using the ETS calculator can save time on routine arithmetic, but it is not always the fastest or safest option. Consider these guidelines when deciding whether to use it.
Good times to use the calculator
- Long decimal multiplication or division where mental arithmetic is error-prone.
- Large computations that would eat into your time if done by hand, for example many-step arithmetic with big numbers.
- Checking a complicated computation you first solved by algebra or estimation.
When to avoid the calculator
- Simple computations that are faster to do mentally, such as common fractions, simple percentages, or small integer arithmetic.
- Problems where algebraic simplification or recognizing number relationships removes the need for arithmetic. Simplify before you calculate.
- When calculator use would increase the chance of a copying or rounding error.
Practical examples and strategy
Here are short examples that show how to decide whether to use the calculator and how to reduce calculation errors.
Example 1: simplify before calculating
Question: What is 3/7 of 420?
Strategy: Simplify first. 420 divided by 7 equals 60, then multiply by 3 to get 180. Mental work is faster and avoids unnecessary keystrokes.
Example 2: use calculator for long decimals
Question: Multiply 18.375 by 24.6
Strategy: This is a case where the on-screen calculator saves time and reduces mistakes. Enter the numbers carefully and double-check the displayed result before submitting.
Example 3: numeric-entry questions
Numeric-entry questions require you to type your answer. For answers that are messy fractions or repeating decimals, try to express the result in a simplified fraction or a terminating decimal if possible. Use the calculator to verify, but keep the simplified form in mind so you avoid entering a rounded value that will be marked wrong.
Common calculator pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Rounding errors: Avoid excessive rounding. If an exact fraction is allowed, give that instead of a rounded decimal.
- Copying mistakes: Double-check that you enter digits correctly. Re-read your typed numeric-entry answers before you submit.
- Overuse: Using the calculator for every small step costs time. Practice estimating so you can spot unreasonable calculator results.
- Memory of previous results: If the calculator retains a previous value, clear it before starting a new calculation.
How to practice with the on-screen calculator
Familiarity speeds you up and reduces mistakes. Practice with the same kind of calculator you will see on test day.
- Use ETS official practice tests and the PowerPrep practice software. These include the same on-screen calculator tool used in the actual test.
- Time yourself doing Quantitative Reasoning problems both with and without the calculator. Notice where mental shortcuts are faster.
- Practice numeric-entry formatting. Know when a fraction is acceptable and when a decimal is required.
Allowed versus not allowed: quick reference table
| Item | Allowed | Not allowed |
|---|---|---|
| On-screen calculator (computer-delivered Quant) | Yes, provided by ETS | Not applicable |
| Personal calculators | No | Bring-your-own calculators, phones used as calculators |
| Analytical Writing / Verbal | No calculator | Any calculation device |
| Paper-delivered GRE | ETS provides a basic calculator when applicable | Personal calculators |
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my own calculator to the GRE?
No. Personal calculators are not allowed in the testing room. ETS provides the calculator for computer-delivered Quantitative Reasoning sections. Phones, smart watches, and other electronic devices are prohibited.
Does the calculator work on all Quantitative questions?
Yes. The on-screen calculator is available for the Quantitative Reasoning sections. It is not available for Verbal or Analytical Writing sections.
Are advanced calculators allowed, such as scientific or graphing calculators?
No. ETS provides a simple calculator only. Advanced calculators with symbolic algebra, graphing, or programming features are not permitted.
Will using the calculator make my score higher?
A calculator can help with accuracy on complicated arithmetic, but it is not a substitute for quantitative reasoning skills. Many GRE Quant questions are designed to be solved by algebraic simplification, estimation, or recognizing number properties. Overreliance on the calculator can waste time and introduce errors.
What if I need to compute a precise fraction or repeating decimal?
If an exact form is accepted, provide the simplified fraction or exact value. If you use the calculator to get a decimal, avoid excessive rounding. Read the question instructions carefully to know which format is required.
Final tips to use the calculator effectively
- Learn which problems benefit from the calculator: reserve it for long decimal work or to verify algebraic results.
- Simplify first: reduce fractions, cancel factors, and combine like terms before calculating.
- Practice with the official tool: use ETS PowerPrep or practice tests so you know the interface and behavior of the on-screen calculator.
- Check your work: quickly estimate to see if the calculator result is reasonable. Re-enter numbers if results look off.
- Manage time: calculating every small step can cost time. Aim to solve most questions with minimal keystrokes.
Where to verify official rules
For the definitive policy on calculators and other test rules, consult ETS, the administrator of the GRE. Testing centers may also post local instructions, but ETS policies determine what is allowed during the exam. When preparing, make ETS practice materials part of your study plan so you experience the same calculator environment you will see on test day.
Conclusion
Yes, a basic calculator is allowed and provided for the Quantitative Reasoning sections of the GRE General Test. It is not available for Verbal Reasoning or Analytical Writing, and personal calculators are not permitted. Use the calculator strategically: simplify expressions first, rely on mental math for simple operations, and practice with the on-screen tool so you can work quickly and accurately on test day.
