Tips For Using The UCAT Calculator

The UCAT calculator is designed to help you work out calculations in the quantitative reasoning and decision making sections of the exam.

When used right, the calculator speeds up the process of working out answers. But if you use it improperly, you could waste time by spending too long on a question.

Follow these tips to use the UCAT calculator efficiently.

How To Use UCAT Calculator

The UCAT calculator can be used in up to three different ways.

Using the most time-efficient method to operate the on-screen calculator will allow more time to spend on the questions themselves. Here are some methods to consider:

• Mouse. All UCAT exam venues will offer a computer mouse that can be used to operate the calculator. You can easily practice this from home, which makes it a good option. However, the mouse is usually slower to operate than using the keyboard.
• Keyboard. Again, all UCAT exam venues will offer keyboards, and these can be used to operate the calculator. But it’s probably different to what you’re used to, as it’ll be the standard full-size that you find in your school library. You should practice this at home, but make sure you use a full-size keyboard – not your standard laptop keyboard.
  • Try These Keyboard shortcuts:
    • Ctrl + c = to access the calculator
    • +, -, *, / = add, subtract, multiply, divide
    • Alt + n = to move to next question
    • Alt + p = to move to previous question
    • Alt + f = to flag current question
    • Num Lock = to activate number keypad
• Touch screen. This isn’t available at all exam venues, and you’ll only be able to practice if you have a touch screen laptop. It may not be as reliable as using the mouse or keyboard.

Tips For Using UCAT Calculator

• Don’t rely on the calculator!
• If the calculation is simple, use mental maths to solve it.
• If you use the calculator for every calculation in the exam you will waste time rather than save it.
• M+ function will save time! Use the memory function on the calculator during complex calculations. The M+ button saves the positive version of the current number to memory, while the M- button saves the negative version.
• MRC has two functions – memory recall if pressed alone, or memory clear if pressed with M-.
• Don’t Be Afraid To Redo Calculations. Be cautious of errors when inputting numbers into the calculator. Trust your gut if the numbers don’t seem to add up!
• If your answer seems implausible then repeat the calculation – this may add another few seconds on a question, but it will be worth it if the answer earns you a mark.