No, you cannot use your own personal calculator on the ATI TEAS exam. However, the exam itself provides an embedded, on-screen calculator for your use during the test.
Calculator Policy for the ATI TEAS Exam
The ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is a crucial standardized exam for those pursuing nursing and allied health fields. When it comes to calculator usage, the policy is specific to maintain a fair and consistent testing environment for all candidates.
The Integrated Calculator
Instead of allowing personal devices, the TEAS exam system features a built-in, digital calculator directly accessible on the computer screen. This means:
- Availability: An on-screen calculator is integrated into the exam software and can be used during relevant sections, particularly the mathematics portion.
- Standardization: Every test-taker has access to the exact same calculator model and functions, ensuring an equitable experience.
- No External Devices: There is no need or allowance to bring your own physical calculator, whether it's a basic model or a scientific/graphing calculator.
Reasons for the Calculator Policy
The decision to provide an embedded calculator while prohibiting personal ones is standard practice for many high-stakes exams. Key reasons include:
- Security: Prevents the use of programmable calculators that could store unauthorized information or formulas.
- Fairness: Ensures that no test-taker has an advantage or disadvantage based on the features or complexity of their personal device.
- Consistency: Guarantees a uniform testing environment across all testing sites and sessions.
Preparing for the Mathematics Section
Knowing that an embedded calculator will be available, your preparation for the mathematics section of the TEAS should focus on:
- Understanding Calculator Functions: Familiarize yourself with how to use basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), percentages, and potentially fractions on a standard digital calculator.
- Problem-Solving: The calculator assists with computations, but the ability to set up the problem correctly and understand the steps required to solve it remains paramount.
- Efficiency: Practice using an on-screen calculator to become efficient with data entry and calculation, helping you manage your time effectively during the exam.
In essence, while you cannot bring your own calculator to the TEAS, a functional digital calculator is provided within the exam system itself to assist you with mathematical computations.
