The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a challenging entrance examination in India. The complexity of the test has led many students to ask, “Can we use Calculator in CAT exam?”. The answer to this query depends on the type of calculator. CAT permits students to use the on-screen calculator during the exam. This tool ensures basic calculations and accuracy during the test. However, candidates cannot bring their physical/personal CAT calculators. In this article, we have shared a detailed solution to the query “Can we use calculator in CAT exam” and other details for reference purposes.
What is a CAT Exam Calculator?
A CAT Exam Calculator is a helpful on-screen tool provided during the CAT exam to ease the basic calculation. This online tool includes addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication without any advanced functions. It is visible on the computer screen and can be used with the mouse. However, if you’re wondering, “Can We Use Calculator in CAT Exam?” The answer is both yes and no as physical CAT calculators are not allowed.
Is a Calculator allowed in a CAT exam?
The CAT exam does not allow test-takers to carry their personal calculators. However, a CAT on-screen calculator is provided to simplify their calculations. This means they can only use a virtual calculator available on their computer screen. Thus, they must practice using CAT on-screen calculators during the preparation and maximise their scores in the exam. This will save their time and improve their question-solving speed and accuracy. Read further for a detailed guide on “Can we use calculator in CAT exam” on this page.
Features of CAT On-Screen Calculator?
The CAT on-screen calculator can be used in all the necessary sections of the exam. It is used to eliminate all the errors that may happen with manual calculations. Some of the features of the CAT calculator are tabulated below:
CAT Calculator Features
| Basic Functions | Addition, Subtraction, Division, and Multiplication |
| Advanced Functions | Square root and reciprocal |
| No High-Level Functions | Functions like logarithms, trigonometry, or advanced statistical operations are not available. |
| Mouse-Operated | The CAT on-screen calculator can only be used with a mouse in the exam. |
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How to Use Calculator in CAT Exam?
The CAT on-screen calculator functions like a normal calculator. Candidates must use the on-screen buttons to enter their data and the result will appear on the screen. To improve efficiency, they must build solid mental math skills and practice with an on-screen calculator during mock tests. Let’s discuss the tips and tricks to use a calculator in the CAT exam.
- Solve mock tests that include CAT on-screen calculator. It will improve your familiarity with the interface and functionalities. Also, it will boost your calculation speed and accuracy.
- Use the CAT calculator to solve challenging and complex questions. It is strongly recommended to avoid using virtual calculators for simple calculations. This can be time-consuming in the exam.
- Identify questions that require a CAT on-screen calculator. For example, you can use this on-screen tool to solve decimals and challenging questions to save time.
- Candidates must learn short-cut techniques like Vedic maths, mind games, or approximation methods to improve their calculation speed, memory, and confidence.
- They can also use a calculator in the CAT exam to ensure the accuracy of their answers. After solving the questions, they can tally their result using the CAT on-screen calculator. This can rectify their errors and reduce the chances of the negative marking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using CAT Exam Calculator
Aspirants must avoid certain mistakes while using the CAT on-screen calculator in the exam. This can negatively impact their performance and reduce their chances of scoring high marks. Some common mistakes to avoid while using the CAT exam calculator are as follows:
Avoiding Familiarity with the CAT Calculator
Less familiarity with CAT on-screen calculators will lead to a waste of time. It will cause unnecessary stress in the exam. So, you must practice enough to improve your calculation speed.
Avoiding Keyboard Shortcuts
Familiarity with keyboard shortcuts can improve efficiency, solving speed, and time management. These shortcut tricks can help you attempt questions in less time with accuracy.
Too Much Reliability on Calculator
You must avoid too much dependency on the CAT calculator to reduce errors. Use the mathematical concepts and verify your answers manually for accurate results.
Lack of Memory Management
Limited memory on CAT calculators requires careful management. So, you must delete the memory post-calculation and save the needed results.
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Can We Use Calculator in CAT Exam?- FAQs
Yes. Students can use the CAT on-screen calculator during the exam.
The answer is both yes and no. CAT permits the usage of a basic on-screen calculator only. No physical/personal calculators are allowed in the CAT exam.
The CAT on-screen calculator includes addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication without any advanced functions.
The advantage of the CAT on-screen calculator is that it reduces errors and improves efficiency & calculation speed.