GED test candidates need to learn the Casio fx-260 calculator, since it's the calculator used for the official General Education Development Test. To prepare well for the test, it's best to get hands-on practice with this Casio, and understand all the calculator functions expected during the test.

When is the Casio Used?

The Casio fx-260 is used for part one of the two-part math test, which includes knowledge and application of basic algebra and geometry, data analysis and basic number operations. Each one of the two parts has 25 questions over 45 minutes - or 90 minutes are allowed for the entire GED math test. The Casio fx-260 is distributed by the test site center for part one of the test, and then collected before part two. Calculators can't be used for the second part. Also, even if test candidates have personal calculators, only those distributed by the test center can be used during the test.

About the Casio fx-260

This Casio is a scientific calculator. It's more advanced than the simpler or more basic calculator models most adults use to balance their checkbooks or to add a grocery bill while shopping. Many of today's high school students and even college graduates aren't very familiar with the advanced calculators and multiple functions of scientific calculators used in today's technology and science fields, and for advanced finances. So calculator skills aren't just important for GED students; a working knowledge of scientific calculators is important to everyone engaged in today's rapidly changing technological society.

Here are the basics that GED test candidates should understand about the Casio fx-260:

- Learn the location of the keys.

- Learn the functions that the keys perform.

- How to use the On button, Clear and All Clear functions.

- Using number keys 0-9, and basic operation keys for addition, multiplication, subtraction and division.

- Learning the location of the decimal point key, equals and percent, and how and when each is used.

- Using the Shift key for changing other keys to alternate functions.

-How the Change Sign and Fraction keys work, and when to use them.

-How Square and Square Root keys work, and when to use them.

- The 'Parenthesis' keys are critical, since these control the order of mathematical operations.

- Understanding the keys to raise numbers to another power, and for exponentials, or the EXP key used in scientific notation.

While it seems like a lot to learn and understand, the test requires only basic knowledge and application of a few functions. Having this knowledge - and being able to use it - will actually help test candidates solve the test's more complicated problems, and in less time.

The Casio fx-260 is well worth learning. Understanding the calculator will reduce the “math anxiety” that so many test candidates experience, and will improve the final GED Test math score. Calculator skills are also very important for performing well with today's technology.

Other Tips & Resources

- Once GED students work with the Casio, they can self-test their knowledge with a GED practice test. The score on a practice test is a good indicator of an actual test score, and can alert students to skill strengths and weaknesses - before the official test.

- For additional free GED math study tips, test information and free resources on the GED test, official testing sites, financial aid and student support, visit the website below. The website also provides links to federal agencies and nonprofits that serve GED students, instructors and workforce development programs.

- The American Council on Education also provides additional information about the GED test, including detailed information about the math test.