Algebra I Regents: How to Use Your Graphing Calculator
On the Algebra I Regents, your graphing calculator is more than a number-cruncher — it's a tool that can solve entire question types fast and let you check your work. Students who are fluent with it have a real time and accuracy advantage. Here's what to master.
Graphing and finding intersections
Many problems become easy when you graph them. Learn to enter equations, set a sensible window, and find intersection points — that's how you solve systems of equations and many word problems quickly. Seeing the graph also helps you sanity-check answers.
Tables of values
The table feature lets you evaluate a function at many inputs instantly. It's perfect for matching equations to tables, finding patterns in sequences, and checking whether a point lies on a line. Don't compute these by hand when the calculator does it in seconds.
Statistics and regression
The Algebra I exam includes data and statistics questions. Learn to enter data into lists and run linear regression to find the line of best fit and the correlation coefficient. These are guaranteed points if you know the keystrokes cold.
Solving quadratics
You can find the roots of a quadratic by graphing and using the zero function, or by checking factored answers in a table. Combine calculator skills with knowing the quadratic formula so you always have a backup method.
Practice the keystrokes
Calculator skill only helps if it's automatic on exam day. Practice the exact button sequences while doing real problems so you're not fumbling under time pressure. Speed and confidence with the tool come from reps.
Regentify's Algebra I practice uses real past Regents questions, so you'll get plenty of chances to pair smart calculator use with the concepts the exam tests. Free for every NY student.