Using a calculator – GCSE Maths

Foundation · Grade 2 · Calculator

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The calculator will do exactly what you type, including the mistakes. Use the fraction button (or $ab/c$) for $\frac{5}{8}$, then S⇔D if a decimal is asked. For powers use $x^2$, $x^3$ or the ${}^{\wedge }$ key; for roots use the matching root key, not trial and improvement.

A fraction bar, a square root and a power are all hidden brackets. $\sqrt{3.6\times 10}$ needs the product inside the root. Type $\sqrt{(}3.6\times 10)$ or use the 2D display so the $10$ sits under the root with the $3.6$.

Write the calculation on paper first. If the display is obviously wrong ($2.5^3$ should be a bit more than $8$, not $15625$), you missed a decimal point or a bracket.

Objectives

• A calculator does the keys you press, including a missing bracket.
• A bracket makes the calculator do that piece first.
• Division and multiplication run left to right.

Key points

• Type a whole calculation in one go using brackets where the question has a fraction line or a root over several terms.
• Use the fraction key to enter and simplify fractions, and switch between fraction and decimal.
• Use the $x^2$, $x^3$, power and root keys.
• Write down the full calculator display before rounding.

Worked examples

Questions and answers

GCSE Maths using a calculator questions and answers. Try each one, then open the answer. Easy questions come first.

Common mistakes

Most lost marks on this topic are one slip.

1. Trusting a display that was typed left to right.

   Match the keys to the order of operations.

2. Forgetting a bracket that the question included.

   The bracket is part of the calculation.

3. Squaring the whole product when only one number has the power.

   The square key applies to the number that carries it.

Exam tips

• A calculator is useful here. Show the calculation you typed, not only the final line.
• If the question says “show that”, the result is given. The marks are for the steps that reach it.
• The method is the same on AQA-style and Edexcel-style papers.
• Always write down the full display before rounding; if your rounding is wrong you still keep the method mark.
• Check the answer is a sensible size with a quick estimate: $\frac{20+6}{4.5}$ is a bit under 6, so 5.84 is believable.

Printable worksheet

The same questions are in a PDF you can print. Answers start on a later page.

Download worksheet (PDF)

Or use Print in your browser. Answers under each question are included when you print.

Questions students ask

Related topics

• Calculation problems
  Grade 2 · Foundation
• Fractions of an amount
  Grade 2 · Foundation
• Fractions, decimals & percentages (FDP)
  Grade 2 · Foundation
• Systematic listing
  Grade 2 · Foundation
• Addition & subtraction
  Grade 1 · Foundation

More on Using a calculator

• Using a calculator worked examples and method
  The method in order, key facts and the full lesson explanation
• Using a calculator practice questions
  A second set of questions with answers, plus quick checks

AQA-style and Edexcel-style questions. Yumio is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to AQA, Pearson Edexcel or any other exam board.

Last updated 9 November 2026.