Confirm if a calculator is permitted for use on the ACT test.
Understanding ACT Calculator Policy
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. A crucial aspect for test-takers is understanding which calculators are permitted during the exam. The ACT has a specific policy to ensure fairness and prevent the use of devices that could provide an unfair advantage.
General Rules for ACT Calculators:
Calculators must be basic, scientific, or graphing calculators.
No calculators with a QWERTY keypad (like a typewriter) are allowed.
No electronic dictionaries, word processors, or cellular phone features are permitted.
No calculators that can access the internet, communicate wirelessly, or have a speaker/microphone are allowed.
No calculators that require an external power source other than batteries.
No calculators that use a computer algebra system (CAS) are permitted.
Why CAS Calculators Are Banned:
Calculators with Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) can perform symbolic mathematics, such as solving equations algebraically, simplifying complex expressions, and performing calculus operations symbolically. These capabilities go beyond the standard functions expected in a testing environment and are therefore prohibited.
The ACT's Official Stance:
The ACT organization provides guidelines and often a list of specific calculator models that have been reviewed and approved. However, the ultimate responsibility lies with the test-taker to ensure their calculator complies with the most current rules on test day. If a calculator is not explicitly prohibited, and it meets the general criteria, it is likely permitted. However, it's always best practice to check the ACT website or consult their official guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
How This Tool Works:
This tool provides a quick way to check common calculator models against the known ACT policies. While it aims to be accurate based on publicly available information, it is not a substitute for the official ACT calculator policy. Always refer to the official ACT website for definitive guidance, especially if your calculator model is not listed or if you have any doubts.
function checkCalculatorApproval() {
var inputElement = document.getElementById("actApprovedModels");
var resultElement = document.getElementById("result");
var calculatorModel = inputElement.value.trim().toLowerCase();
if (calculatorModel === "") {
resultElement.textContent = "Please enter a calculator model.";
resultElement.style.color = "#dc3545"; // Red for error
return;
}
// List of commonly approved calculator models (not exhaustive, refer to ACT official list)
var approvedModels = [
"ti-83", "ti-83 plus", "ti-84", "ti-84 plus", "ti-84 plus silver edition",
"ti-84 plus ce", "ti-84 plus c silver edition",
"casio fx-9750gii", "casio fx-9750giii", "casio fx-115es plus", "casio fx-991ex",
"hp 39gs", "hp 40gs", "hp 50g", // Note: HP 50g might have CAS, check specific version
"sharp el-w535xt", "sharp el-520x",
"numworks n0100", // Generally approved, but double-check for CAS features if any updates occur.
"google calculator app", "calculadora ti-30xs multiview" // Example with Spanish
];
// List of commonly prohibited calculator types or features
var prohibitedFeatures = [
"qwerty", "keyboard", "internet", "wireless", "bluetooth", "wi-fi", "cellular",
"phone", "speaker", "microphone", "cassette tape", "pen", "stylus",
"computer algebra system", "cas", "symbolic", "programmable with text"
];
var isApproved = false;
var reason = "";
// Direct match in approved list
for (var i = 0; i < approvedModels.length; i++) {
if (approvedModels[i].includes(calculatorModel)) {
isApproved = true;
reason = "This model is commonly listed as approved by ACT.";
break;
}
}
// Check against prohibited features if not directly approved
if (!isApproved) {
for (var j = 0; j < prohibitedFeatures.length; j++) {
if (calculatorModel.includes(prohibitedFeatures[j])) {
isApproved = false;
reason = "This model or its features (e.g., 'qwerty' keypad, 'internet' access, 'CAS') are generally prohibited by ACT.";
break;
}
}
}
// Add specific known prohibited models
if (!isApproved) {
var prohibitedModels = [
"ti-nspire cx cas", "ti-89", "voyage 200", "hp 49g+", "hp 50g" // HP 50g can have CAS enabled
];
for (var k = 0; k < prohibitedModels.length; k++) {
if (calculatorModel.includes(prohibitedModels[k])) {
isApproved = false;
reason = "This model is explicitly prohibited by ACT due to its advanced features (like CAS).";
break;
}
}
}
// Default if no specific match or prohibition found
if (!isApproved && reason === "") {
reason = "This model is not on the commonly approved/prohibited lists. Always consult the official ACT calculator policy for definitive confirmation.";
isApproved = true; // Assume okay unless explicitly prohibited, but advise user.
}
if (isApproved) {
resultElement.textContent = "✅ Approved: " + reason;
resultElement.style.color = "#28a745"; // Success Green
} else {
resultElement.textContent = "❌ Not Approved: " + reason;
resultElement.style.color = "#dc3545"; // Red for error
}
}