Calculator Strategy for the ACT

ACT Math · Axiom Academy

LESSON Calculator Strategy for the ACT The ACT allows a calculator on every question — the skill is knowing when NOT to reach for it 1. The Golden Rule: Calculator as a Tool, Not a Crutch A calculator should save you time, not cost you time . Whether it helps depends entirely on the problem in front of you — there's no single right answer. Watch two races run at once below: the same two competitors, Mental Math and Calculator, tackle a different problem in each lane. The winner is not the same both times. Lane 1 — a simple fact you already know Lane 2 — a computation worth outsourcing 2. When to Reach for It — and When Not To Use the two lists below as your working rule of thumb. Neither is exhaustive, but together they cover the overwhelming majority of ACT Math questions. Exponents and roots ( or 3.2^5 ) Trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan) Logarithms with large or awkward numbers Statistical calculations (mean, standard deviation) Graphing a function to check your work Plugging in answer choices, when it's fast Simple mental math ( 2+3 , , ) Problems where the setup matters more than the calculation Algebraic manipulation (simplifying, factoring) Reading graphs — you need to understand what you're looking at Logic problems — a calculator can't help with reasoning Widely-spaced answer choices — estimation is faster 3. What's Allowed — and What Isn't

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