In this article (and video above), I explore the top calculators that can help you pass the FE exam with confidence. From Texas Instruments to HP, we’ll compare the features, functionality, and usability of the most popular calculators on the market. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, this article and video will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision and choose the best calculator for your FE exam preparation.
Why Your Calculator Choice Matters
Selecting the right calculator for the FE exam is a crucial decision—it can make the difference between passing and failing. The FE exam is a challenging test that requires not only strong technical knowledge but also efficiency and confidence in problem-solving. A well-suited calculator can help you:
- Solve problems more quickly and accurately
- Reduce stress during the exam
- Improve overall efficiency and confidence
With so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. However, prioritizing this decision will ensure you are well-prepared for exam day.
Understanding FE Exam Calculator Restrictions
One of the biggest challenges students face when selecting a calculator is ensuring it meets the FE exam’s strict guidelines. The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) has a pre-approved list of calculators that can be used during the exam. Any calculator outside this list is not permitted.
Common Challenges Students Face
- Finding a calculator that balances functionality, ease of use, and affordability
- Avoiding calculators with prohibited advanced features
- Navigating through conflicting recommendations and reviews
- Keeping up with the evolving calculator market and changing exam policies
By selecting an NCEES-approved calculator that aligns with your needs, you can eliminate the stress of last-minute surprises.
Here are Some of The Key Features to Look for in a Calculator
When choosing your FE exam calculator, consider the following essential features:
First, Here Are the Must-Have Features
✔ Approved by NCEES – You must ensure it meets the exam’s regulations
✔ Scientific Functions – It must have the ability to perform logarithms, trigonometry, matrix calculations, and statistical analysis
✔ User-Friendly Interface – Your calculator should have an intuitive layout to minimize errors during the exam
✔ Battery Life – It should have a reliable power source to last through the entire exam
✔ Durability – It should be a well-built calculator that won’t break under a lot of use
Here are Some Nice-to-Have Features
➕ Equation recall and memory functions – This is useful for solving multi-step problems
➕ Fraction-to-decimal conversion – This feature helps simplify problem-solving
➕ Dual power (solar + battery) – This ensures longevity
By focusing on these key features, you can find a calculator that not only meets NCEES standards but also enhances your problem-solving speed and accuracy.
Several calculators stand out as top choices for FE exam takers. These models comply with NCEES regulations and offer the essential functions needed for problem-solving.
Here are Some of the Top NCEES-Approved Calculators
- The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro
- Pros: This calculator is simple, easy to use, and packed with essential functions
- Cons: It does not have graphing capabilities
- Next, the HP 35s Scientific Calculator
- Pros: This calculator offers RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) input, which is great for engineering problems
- Cons: It requires a slightly steeper learning curve
- And lastly, the Casio fx-115ES Plus and fx-991EX
- Pros: This calculator has a natural textbook display, which means shows mathematical expressions and results on its screen exactly as they would appear in a textbook, and it has an easy-to-use interface
- Cons: It does have limited programming functions
Each of these calculators has its strengths, and choosing the right one depends on your comfort level and preferences.
Final Recommendations:
The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro stands out as one of the best options for the FE exam. It offers:
✅ A simple and intuitive interface
✅ All necessary scientific functions
✅ NCEES approval for exam use, AND
✅ Affordability compared to other models
However, the HP 35s and Casio fx-115ES Plus also remain strong contenders based on personal preference and familiarity.
REMEMBER: Your calculator is more than just a tool—it’s a critical part of your FE Exam strategy. To maximize your success:
- Pick the right calculator early and stick with it
- Practice extensively using your calculator on practice exams
- Familiarize yourself with all functions to save time during the test
Whether you choose the TI-36X Pro, HP 35s, or Casio fx-115ES Plus, make sure it feels like an extension of your hand by exam day. With the right calculator and solid preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to ace the FE Exam!
I hope you found this week’s FE Exam article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will answer more FE Exam questions and run through more practice problems. We publish videos bi-weekly on our Pass the FE Exam YouTube Channel. Be sure to visit our page here and click the subscribe button as you’ll get expert tips and tricks – to ensure your best success – that you can’t get anywhere else. Believe me, you won’t want to miss a single video.
Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of the videos or here on this page, and I’ll read and respond to them in future videos. So, if there’s a specific topic you want me to cover or answer, we have you covered.
I’ll see you next week… on Pass the FE Exam
Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
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