JBL TI84Plus_OS255MP TI 84 Plus / Silver Edition Guidebook (English) TI84Plus EN

User Manual: JBL TI-84 Plus / TI-84 Plus Silver Edition guidebook (English) TI-84 Plus / TI-84 Plus Silver Edition Guidebook

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TI-84 Plus and
TI-84 Plus Silver Edition
Guidebook

Note: This guidebook for the TI-84 Plus or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition with operating system (OS)

version 2.55MP. If your calculator has a previous OS version, your screens may look different
and some features may not be available. You can download the latest OS
education.ti.com/guides.

Important Information
Texas Instruments makes no warranty, either express or implied, including but not limited to
any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, regarding any
programs or book materials and makes such materials available solely on an "as-is" basis. In
no event shall Texas Instruments be liable to anyone for special, collateral, incidental, or
consequential damages in connection with or arising out of the purchase or use of these
materials, and the sole and exclusive liability of Texas Instruments, regardless of the form of
action, shall not exceed the purchase price of this product. Moreover, Texas Instruments shall
not be liable for any claim of any kind whatsoever against the use of these materials by any
other party.

© 2004–2010 Texas Instruments Incorporated
Vernier EasyData, Vernier LabPro, and Vernier Go! Motion are a trademarks of Vernier
Software & Technology.

ii

Contents
Important Information .................................................................................................................... ii

Chapter 1:
Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition .................................................................... 1
Documentation Conventions .......................................................................................................... 1
TI-84 Plus Keyboard ......................................................................................................................... 1
Turning On and Turning Off the TI-84 Plus .................................................................................... 3
Setting the Display Contrast ........................................................................................................... 4
The Display ....................................................................................................................................... 5
Interchangeable Faceplates ............................................................................................................ 8
Using the Clock ................................................................................................................................ 9
Entering Expressions and Instructions .......................................................................................... 11
Setting Modes ................................................................................................................................ 14
Using TI-84 Plus Variable Names ................................................................................................... 19
Storing Variable Values ................................................................................................................. 20
Recalling Variable Values .............................................................................................................. 21
Scrolling Through Previous Entries on the Home Screen ............................................................ 22
ENTRY (Last Entry) Storage Area .................................................................................................. 22
TI-84 Plus Menus ............................................................................................................................ 25
VARS and VARS Y-VARS Menus ..................................................................................................... 27
Equation Operating System (EOS™) ............................................................................................. 29
Special Features of the TI-84 Plus ................................................................................................. 30
Other TI-84 Plus Features .............................................................................................................. 31
Error Conditions ............................................................................................................................. 33

Chapter 2:
Math, Angle, and Test Operations ......................................................................... 35
Getting Started: Coin Flip ............................................................................................................. 35
Keyboard Math Operations .......................................................................................................... 36
MATH Operations .......................................................................................................................... 38
Using the Equation Solver ............................................................................................................. 42
MATH NUM (Number) Operations ................................................................................................ 45
Entering and Using Complex Numbers ........................................................................................ 50
MATH CPX (Complex) Operations ................................................................................................ 54
MATH PRB (Probability) Operations ............................................................................................. 56
ANGLE Operations ......................................................................................................................... 59
TEST (Relational) Operations ........................................................................................................ 62
TEST LOGIC (Boolean) Operations ................................................................................................ 63

Chapter 3:
Function Graphing .................................................................................................. 65
Getting Started: Graphing a Circle ............................................................................................... 65
Defining Graphs ............................................................................................................................. 66
Setting the Graph Modes .............................................................................................................. 67
Defining Functions ........................................................................................................................ 68
Selecting and Deselecting Functions ............................................................................................ 69
Setting Graph Styles for Functions ............................................................................................... 71
Setting the Viewing Window Variables ....................................................................................... 73
Setting the Graph Format ............................................................................................................. 74
Displaying Graphs .......................................................................................................................... 76
Exploring Graphs with the Free-Moving Cursor .......................................................................... 78
Exploring Graphs with TRACE ....................................................................................................... 78
Exploring Graphs with the ZOOM Instructions ............................................................................ 80
Using ZOOM MEMORY .................................................................................................................. 85
Using the CALC (Calculate) Operations ........................................................................................ 87

iii

Chapter 4:
Parametric Graphing .............................................................................................. 91
Getting Started: Path of a Ball ...................................................................................................... 91
Defining and Displaying Parametric Graphs ................................................................................ 93
Exploring Parametric Graphs ........................................................................................................ 95

Chapter 5:
Polar Graphing ........................................................................................................ 97
Getting Started: Polar Rose ........................................................................................................... 97
Defining and Displaying Polar Graphs ......................................................................................... 98
Exploring Polar Graphs ................................................................................................................ 100

Chapter 6:
Sequence Graphing ............................................................................................... 102
Getting Started: Forest and Trees ............................................................................................... 102
Defining and Displaying Sequence Graphs ................................................................................ 103
Selecting Axes Combinations ...................................................................................................... 107
Exploring Sequence Graphs ........................................................................................................ 107
Graphing Web Plots ..................................................................................................................... 109
Using Web Plots to Illustrate Convergence ................................................................................ 110
Graphing Phase Plots ................................................................................................................... 111
Comparing TI-84 Plus and TI-82 Sequence Variables ................................................................. 113
Keystroke Differences Between TI-84 Plus
and TI-82 ................................................................................................................................. 114

Chapter 7:
Tables ..................................................................................................................... 115
Getting Started: Roots of a Function .......................................................................................... 115
Setting Up the Table .................................................................................................................... 116
Defining the Dependent Variables ............................................................................................. 117
Displaying the Table .................................................................................................................... 118

Chapter 8:
Draw Instructions ................................................................................................. 121
Getting Started: Drawing a Tangent Line .................................................................................. 121
Using the DRAW Menu ............................................................................................................... 122
Clearing Drawings ....................................................................................................................... 123
Drawing Line Segments .............................................................................................................. 124
Drawing Horizontal and Vertical Lines ...................................................................................... 125
Drawing Tangent Lines ................................................................................................................ 126
Drawing Functions and Inverses ................................................................................................. 127
Shading Areas on a Graph .......................................................................................................... 128
Drawing Circles ............................................................................................................................ 128
Placing Text on a Graph .............................................................................................................. 129
Using Pen to Draw on a Graph ................................................................................................... 130
Drawing Points on a Graph ......................................................................................................... 131
Drawing Pixels ............................................................................................................................. 132
Storing Graph Pictures (Pic) ......................................................................................................... 134
Recalling Graph Pictures (Pic) ...................................................................................................... 135
Storing Graph Databases (GDB) .................................................................................................. 135
Recalling Graph Databases (GDB) ............................................................................................... 136

Chapter 9:
Split Screen ........................................................................................................... 137
Getting Started: Exploring the Unit Circle ................................................................................. 137
Using Split Screen ........................................................................................................................ 138
iv

Horiz (Horizontal) Split Screen .................................................................................................... 139
G-T (Graph-Table) Split Screen .................................................................................................... 140
TI-84 Plus Pixels in Horiz and G-T Modes .................................................................................... 141

Chapter 10:
Matrices ................................................................................................................. 143
Getting Started: Using the MTRX Shortcut Menu ..................................................................... 143
Getting Started: Systems of Linear Equations ............................................................................ 144
Defining a Matrix ........................................................................................................................ 145
Viewing and Editing Matrix Elements ........................................................................................ 146
Using Matrices with Expressions ................................................................................................. 148
Displaying and Copying Matrices ............................................................................................... 149
Using Math Functions with Matrices .......................................................................................... 151
Using the MATRX MATH Operations .......................................................................................... 154

Chapter 11:
Lists ........................................................................................................................ 161
Getting Started: Generating a Sequence ................................................................................... 161
Naming Lists ................................................................................................................................. 162
Storing and Displaying Lists ........................................................................................................ 163
Entering List Names ..................................................................................................................... 164
Attaching Formulas to List Names .............................................................................................. 165
Using Lists in Expressions ............................................................................................................ 167
LIST OPS Menu ............................................................................................................................. 168
LIST MATH Menu ......................................................................................................................... 175

Chapter 12:
Statistics ................................................................................................................ 178
Getting Started: Pendulum Lengths and Periods ...................................................................... 178
Setting Up Statistical Analyses .................................................................................................... 184
Using the Stat List Editor ............................................................................................................. 185
Attaching Formulas to List Names .............................................................................................. 188
Detaching Formulas from List Names ......................................................................................... 190
Switching Stat List Editor Contexts ............................................................................................. 190
Stat List Editor Contexts .............................................................................................................. 192
STAT EDIT Menu ........................................................................................................................... 193
Regression Model Features ......................................................................................................... 195
STAT CALC Menu .......................................................................................................................... 198
Statistical Variables ...................................................................................................................... 206
Statistical Analysis in a Program ................................................................................................. 207
Statistical Plotting ........................................................................................................................ 208
Statistical Plotting in a Program ................................................................................................. 212

Chapter 13:
Inferential Statistics and Distributions ............................................................... 215
Getting Started: Mean Height of a Population ......................................................................... 215
Inferential Stat Editors ................................................................................................................ 218
STAT TESTS Menu ......................................................................................................................... 221
Inferential Statistics Input Descriptions ...................................................................................... 239
Test and Interval Output Variables ............................................................................................. 240
Distribution Functions ................................................................................................................. 241
Distribution Shading ................................................................................................................... 248

Chapter 14:
Applications .......................................................................................................... 251
The Applications Menu ............................................................................................................... 251

v

Getting Started: Financing a Car ................................................................................................ 252
Getting Started: Computing Compound Interest ...................................................................... 253
Using the TVM Solver ................................................................................................................. 253
Using the Financial Functions ..................................................................................................... 254
Calculating Time Value of Money (TVM) ................................................................................... 255
Calculating Cash Flows ................................................................................................................ 257
Calculating Amortization ............................................................................................................ 258
Calculating Interest Conversion .................................................................................................. 261
Finding Days between Dates/Defining Payment Method ......................................................... 261
Using the TVM Variables ............................................................................................................. 262
The EasyData™ Application ........................................................................................................ 263

Chapter 15:
CATALOG, Strings, Hyperbolic Functions ............................................................ 266
Browsing the TI-84 Plus CATALOG .............................................................................................. 266
Entering and Using Strings ......................................................................................................... 267
Storing Strings to String Variables .............................................................................................. 268
String Functions and Instructions in the CATALOG ................................................................... 269
Hyperbolic Functions in the CATALOG ....................................................................................... 273

Chapter 16:
Programming ........................................................................................................ 275
Getting Started: Volume of a Cylinder ....................................................................................... 275
Creating and Deleting Programs ................................................................................................ 276
Entering Command Lines and Executing Programs ................................................................... 278
Editing Programs ......................................................................................................................... 279
Copying and Renaming Programs .............................................................................................. 280
PRGM CTL (Control) Instructions ................................................................................................. 281
PRGM I/O (Input/Output) Instructions ........................................................................................ 288
Calling Other Programs as Subroutines ...................................................................................... 293
Running an Assembly Language Program ................................................................................. 294

Chapter 17:
Activities ............................................................................................................... 296
The Quadratic Formula ............................................................................................................... 296
Box with Lid ................................................................................................................................. 299
Comparing Test Results Using Box Plots ..................................................................................... 306
Graphing Piecewise Functions .................................................................................................... 308
Graphing Inequalities .................................................................................................................. 309
Solving a System of Nonlinear Equations ................................................................................... 310
Using a Program to Create the Sierpinski Triangle .................................................................... 311
Graphing Cobweb Attractors ...................................................................................................... 312
Using a Program to Guess the Coefficients ................................................................................ 313
Graphing the Unit Circle and Trigonometric Curves ................................................................. 315
Finding the Area between Curves .............................................................................................. 316
Using Parametric Equations: Ferris Wheel Problem .................................................................. 317
Demonstrating the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus ............................................................ 319
Computing Areas of Regular N-Sided Polygons ........................................................................ 321
Computing and Graphing Mortgage Payments ........................................................................ 323

Chapter 18:
Memory and Variable Management .................................................................... 326
Checking Available Memory ....................................................................................................... 326
Deleting Items from Memory ..................................................................................................... 329
Clearing Entries and List Elements ............................................................................................. 329
Archiving and UnArchiving Variables ......................................................................................... 330

vi

Resetting the TI-84 Plus ............................................................................................................... 333
Grouping and Ungrouping Variables ......................................................................................... 336
Garbage Collection ...................................................................................................................... 339
ERR:ARCHIVE FULL Message ....................................................................................................... 343

Chapter 19:
Communication Link ............................................................................................. 344
Getting Started: Sending Variables ............................................................................................ 344
TI-84 Plus LINK ............................................................................................................................. 345
Selecting Items to Send ............................................................................................................... 347
Receiving Items ............................................................................................................................ 350
Backing Up RAM Memory ........................................................................................................... 351
Error Conditions ........................................................................................................................... 352

Appendix A:
Functions and Instructions ................................................................................... 354
Appendix B:
Reference Information ......................................................................................... 383
Variables ....................................................................................................................................... 383
Statistics Formulas ....................................................................................................................... 384
Financial Formulas ....................................................................................................................... 387
Important Things You Need to Know About Your TI-84 Plus ................................................... 391
Error Conditions ........................................................................................................................... 394
Accuracy Information .................................................................................................................. 398

Appendix C:
Service and Warranty Information ...................................................................... 400
Texas Instruments Support and Service ...................................................................................... 400
Battery Information ..................................................................................................................... 400
In Case of Difficulty ..................................................................................................................... 402

vii

Chapter 1:
Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition
Documentation Conventions
In the body of this guidebook, TI-84 Plus refers to the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition, but all of the
instructions, examples, and functions in this guidebook also work for the TI-84 Plus. The two
graphing calculators differ only in available RAM memory, interchangeable faceplates, and Flash
application ROM memory. Sometimes, as in Chapter 19, the full name TI-84 Plus Silver Edition is
used to distinguish it from the TI-84 Plus.
Screen shots were taken using OS version 2.53MP and higher in either MathPrint™ or Classic
mode. All features are available in both modes; however, screens make look slightly different
depending on the mode setting. Many examples highlight features that are not available in
previous OS versions. If your calculator does not have the latest OS, features may not be available
and your screens may look different. You can download the latest OS from education.ti.com.
A new MODE menu item, STAT WIZARDS is available with OS version 2.55MP for syntax entry
help for commands and functions in the STAT CALC menu, DISTR DISTR menu, DISTR DRAW
menu and the seq( function (sequence) in the LIST OPS menu. When selecting a supported
statistics command, regression or distribution with the STAT WIZARDS setting ON: (the default
setting) a syntax help (wizard) screen is displayed. The wizard allows the entry of required and
optional arguments. The function or command will paste with the entered arguments to the Home
Screen history or in most other locations where the cursor is available for input. If a command or
function is accessed from N the command or function will paste without wizard support. Run
the Catalog Help application (Œ) for more syntax help when needed. APPS

TI-84 Plus Keyboard
Generally, the keyboard is divided into these zones: graphing keys, editing keys, advanced
function keys, and scientific calculator keys.
Keyboard Zones
Graphing — Graphing keys access the interactive graphing features. The third function of these

keys (t ^-a) displays the shortcut menus, which include templates for fractions, n/d, quick
matrix entry, and some of the functions found on the MATH and VARS menus.

Editing — Editing keys allow you to edit expressions and values.
Advanced — Advanced function keys display menus that access the advanced functions.
Scientific — Scientific calculator keys access the capabilities of a standard scientific calculator.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

1

TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

Graphing Keys
Editing Keys
Advanced
Function Keys

Scientific
Calculator Keys

Using the Color.Coded Keyboard
The keys on the TI-84 Plus are color-coded to help you easily locate the key you need.
The light colored keys are the number keys. The keys along the right side of the keyboard are the
common math functions. The keys across the top set up and display graphs. The Œ key provides
access to applications such as the Inequality Graphing, Transformation Graphing, Conic Graphing,
Polynomial Root Finder and Simultaneous Equation Solver, and Catalog Help.
The primary function of each key is printed on the keys. For example, when you press , the
MATH menu is displayed.

Using the y and ƒ Keys
The secondary function of each key is printed above the key. When you press the y key, the
character, abbreviation, or word printed above the other keys becomes active for the next
keystroke. For example, when you press y and then , the TEST menu is displayed. This
guidebook describes this keystroke combination as y :.
Many keys also have a third function. These functions are printed above the keys in the same
color as the ƒ key. The third functions enter alphabetic characters and special symbols as
well as access SOLVE and shortcut menus. For example, when you press ƒ and then ,
the letter A is entered. This guidebook describes this keystroke combination as ƒ [A].

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

2

If you want to enter several alphabetic characters in a row, you can press y 7 to lock the
alpha key in the On position and avoid having to press ƒ multiple times. Press ƒ a
second time to unlock it.
Note: The flashing cursor changes to

Ø when you press ƒ, even if you are accessing a

function or a menu.

ƒ^-a
y
Accesses the
second function
printed above each
key.

Access shortcut
menus for
functionality
including templates
for fractions, n/d,
and other
functions.

ƒ
Accesses the third
function printed
above each key.

Turning On and Turning Off the TI-84 Plus
Turning On the Graphing Calculator
To turn on the TI-84 Plus, press É. An information screen displays reminding you that you can
press t ^ - a to display the shortcut menus. This message also displays when you reset
RAM.
f To continue but not see this information screen again, press 1.
f To continue and see this information screen again the next time you turn on the TI-84 Plus,
press 2.
•

If you previously had turned off the graphing calculator by pressing y M, the TI-84 Plus
displays the home screen as it was when you last used it and clears any error. (The
information screen displays first, unless you chose not to see it again.) If the home screen is
blank, press } to scroll through the history of previous calculations.

•

If Automatic Power Down™ (APD™) had previously turned off the graphing calculator, the
TI-84 Plus will return exactly as you left it, including the display, cursor, and any error.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

3

•

If the TI-84 Plus is turned off and connected to another graphing calculator or personal
computer, any communication activity will “wake up” the TI-84 Plus.

To prolong the life of the batteries, APD™ turns off the TI-84 Plus automatically after about five
minutes without any activity.
Turning Off the Graphing Calculator
To turn off the TI-84 Plus manually, press y M.
•

All settings and memory contents are retained by the Constant Memory™ function.

•

Any error condition is cleared.

Batteries
The TI-84 Plus uses five batteries: four AAA alkaline batteries and one button cell backup battery.
The backup battery provides auxiliary power to retain memory while you replace the AAA
batteries. To replace batteries without losing any information stored in memory, follow the steps in
Appendix C.

Setting the Display Contrast
Adjusting the Display Contrast
You can adjust the display contrast to suit your viewing angle and lighting conditions. As you change
the contrast setting, a number from 0 (lightest) to 9 (darkest) in the top-right corner indicates the
current level. You may not be able to see the number if contrast is too light or too dark.
Note: The TI-84 Plus has 40 contrast settings, so each number 0 through 9 represents four

settings.
The TI-84 Plus retains the contrast setting in memory when it is turned off.
To adjust the contrast, follow these steps.
f Press y } to darken the screen one level at a time.
f Press y † to lighten the screen one level at a time.
Note: If you adjust the contrast setting to 0, the display may become completely blank. To restore
the screen, press y } until the display reappears.

When to Replace Batteries
When the batteries are low, a low-battery message is displayed when you turn on the graphing
calculator.
To replace the batteries without losing any information in memory, follow the steps in Appendix C.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

4

Generally, the graphing calculator will continue to operate for one or two weeks after the lowbattery message is first displayed. After this period, the TI-84 Plus will turn off automatically and
the unit will not operate. Batteries must be replaced. All memory should be retained.
Note:

•

The operating period following the first low-battery message could be longer than two weeks if
you use the graphing calculator infrequently.

•

Always replace batteries before attempting to install a new operating system.

The Display
Types of Displays
The TI-84 Plus displays both text and graphs. Chapter 3 describes graphs. Chapter 9 describes
how the TI-84 Plus can display a horizontally or vertically split screen to show graphs and text
simultaneously.
Home Screen
The home screen is the primary screen of the TI-84 Plus. On this screen, enter instructions to
execute and expressions to evaluate. The answers are displayed on the same screen. Most
calculations are stored in the history on the home screen. You can press } and † to scroll through
the history of entries on the home screen and you can paste the entries or answers to the current
entry line.
Displaying Entries and Answers
•

When text is displayed, the TI-84 Plus screen can display a maximum of 8 lines with a
maximum of 16 characters per line in Classic mode. In MathPrint™ mode, fewer lines and
fewer characters per line may be displayed.

•

If all lines of the display are full, text scrolls off the top of the display.
-

To view previous entries and answers, press }.
To copy a previous entry or answer and paste it to the current entry line, move the cursor
to the entry or answer you want to copy and press Í.
Note: List and matrix outputs cannot be copied. If you try to copy and paste a list or matrix

output, the cursor returns to the input line.
•

If an expression on the home screen, the Y= editor (Chapter 3), or the program editor
(Chapter 16) is longer than one line, it wraps to the beginning of the next line in Classic mode.
In MathPrint™ mode, an expression on the home screen or Y= editor that is longer than one
line scrolls off the screen to the right. An arrow on the right side of the screen indicates that
you can scroll right to see more of the expression. In numeric editors such as the window
screen (Chapter 3), a long expression scrolls to the right and left in both Classic and
MathPrint™ modes. Press y ~ to move the cursor to the end of the line. Press y | to
move the cursor to the beginning of the line.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

5

When an entry is executed on the home screen, the answer is displayed on the right side of the
next line.
Entry
Answer

The mode settings control the way the TI-84 Plus interprets expressions and displays answers.
If an answer, such as a list or matrix, is too long to display entirely on one line, an arrow
(MathPrint™) or an ellipsis (Classic) is displayed to the right or left. Press ~ and | to display the
answer.
Classic

MathPrint™

Entry
Answer

Entry
Answer

Entry

Entry
Answer

Answer

Using Shortcut Menus

t^

t_

t`

ta

Opens FRAC
menu.

Opens FUNC
menu.

Opens MTRX
menu.

Opens YVAR
menu.

Shortcut menus allow quick access to the following:

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

6

•

Templates to enter fractions and selected functions from the MATH MATH and MATH NUM
menus as you would see them in a textbook. Functions include absolute value, summation,
numeric differentiation, numeric integration, and log base n.

•

Matrix entry.

•

Names of function variables from the VARS Y-VARS menu.

Initially, the menus are hidden. To open a menu, press t plus the F-key that corresponds to
the menu, that is, ^ for FRAC, _ for FUNC, ` for MTRX, or a for YVAR. To select a menu
item, either press the number corresponding to the item, or use the arrow keys to move the cursor
to the appropriate line and then press Í.
All shortcut menu items except matrix templates can also be selected using standard menus. For
example, you can choose the summation template from three places:
FUNC shortcut menu

MATH MATH menu

Catalog

The shortcut menus are available to use where input is allowed. If the calculator is in Classic
mode, or if a screen is displayed that does not support MathPrint™ display, entries will be
displayed in Classic display. The MTRX menu is only available in MathPrint™ mode on the home
screen and in the Y= editor.
Note: Shortcut menus may not be available if t plus F-key combinations are used by an

application that is running, such as Inequality Graphing or Transformation Graphing.
Returning to the Home Screen
To return to the home screen from any other screen, press y 5.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

7

Busy Indicator
When the TI-84 Plus is calculating or graphing, a vertical moving line is displayed as a busy
indicator in the top-right corner of the screen. When you pause a graph or a program, the busy
indicator becomes a vertical moving dotted line.
Display Cursors
In most cases, the appearance of the cursor indicates what will happen when you press the next
key or select the next menu item to be pasted as a character.
Cursor

Appearance

Effect of Next Keystroke

Entry

Solid rectangle

$

A character is entered at the cursor; any existing
character is overwritten

Insert

Underline
__

A character is inserted in front of the cursor
location

Reverse arrow

A 2nd character is entered or a 2nd operation is
executed

Reverse A

An alpha character is entered, SOLVE is
executed, or shortcut menus are displayed.

Second
Alpha
Full
MathPrint™

Þ
Ø

Checkerboard rectangle No entry; the maximum characters are entered at
a prompt or memory is full

#

Right arrow

The cursor moves to either the next part of the
template or out of the template.

If you press ƒ during an insertion, the cursor becomes an underlined A (A). If you press y
during an insertion, the underlined cursors becomes an underlined # (#).
Note: If you highlight a small character such as a colon or a comma and then press ƒ or y,

the cursor does not change because the cursor width is too narrow.
Graphs and editors sometimes display additional cursors, which are described in other chapters.

Interchangeable Faceplates
The TI-84 Plus Silver Edition has interchangeable faceplates that let you customize the
appearance of your unit. To purchase additional faceplates, refer to the TI Online Store at
education.ti.com.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

8

Removing a Faceplate
1. Lift the tab at the bottom edge of
the faceplate away from the TI-84
Plus Silver Edition case.
2. Carefully lift the faceplate away
from the unit until it releases. Be
careful not to damage the
faceplate or the keyboard.

Installing New Faceplates
1. Align the top of the faceplate in the
corresponding grooves of the TI-84
Plus Silver Edition case.
2. Gently click the faceplate into
place. Do not force.

3. Make sure you gently press each
of the grooves to ensure the
faceplate is installed properly. See
the diagram for proper groove
placement.

Using the Clock
Use the clock to set the time and date, select the clock display format, and turn the clock on and
off. The clock is turned on by default and is accessed from the mode screen.
Displaying the Clock Settings
1. Press z.
2. Press the † to move the cursor to SET CLOCK.
3. Press Í.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

9

Changing the Clock Settings
1. Press the ~ or | to highlight the date format you
want. Press Í.
2. Press † to highlight YEAR. Press ‘ and type
the year.
3. Press † to highlight MONTH. Press ‘ and
type the number of the month (1-12).
4. Press † to highlight DAY. Press ‘ and type
the date.
5. Press † to highlight TIME. Press ~ or | to
highlight the time format you want. Press Í.
6. Press † to highlight HOUR. Press ‘ and type
the hour (a number from 1-12 or 0-23).
7. Press † to highlight MINUTE. Press ‘ and
type the minutes (a number from 0-59).
8. Press † to highlight AM/PM. Press ~ or | to
highlight the format. Press Í.
9. To save changes, press † to highlight SAVE.
Press Í.

Error Messages
If you type the wrong date for the month, for example,
June 31 (June does not have 31 days), you will
receive an error message with two choices:
•

To quit the clock application and return to the
home screen, select 1: Quit.
— or —

•

To return to the clock application and correct the
error, select 2: Goto.

Turning the Clock On
There are two options to turn the clock on. One option is through the MODE screen, the other is
through the Catalog.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

10

Using the Mode Screen to turn the clock on

1. If the clock is turned off, Press † to highlight TURN
CLOCK ON.
2. Press Í Í.

Using the Catalog to turn the clock on

1. If the clock is turned off, Press y N
2. Press † or } to scroll the CATALOG until the
selection cursor points to ClockOn.
3. Press Í Í.

Turning the Clock Off
1. Press y N.
2. Press † or } to scroll the CATALOG until the
selection cursor points to ClockOff.
3. Press Í Í.

Entering Expressions and Instructions
What Is an Expression?
An expression is a group of numbers, variables, functions and their arguments, or a combination of
these elements. An expression evaluates to a single answer. On the TI-84 Plus, you enter an
expression in the same order as you would write it on paper. For example, pR2 is an expression.
You can use an expression on the home screen to calculate an answer. In most places where a
value is required, you can use an expression to enter a value.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

11

Entering an Expression
To create an expression, you enter numbers, variables, and functions using the keyboard and
menus. An expression is completed when you press Í, regardless of the cursor location. The
entire expression is evaluated according to Equation Operating System (EOS™) rules, and the
answer is displayed according to the mode setting for Answer.
Most TI-84 Plus functions and operations are symbols comprising several characters. You must
enter the symbol from the keyboard or a menu; do not spell it out. For example, to calculate the log
of 45, you must press « 45. Do not enter the letters L, O, and G. If you enter LOG, the TI-84 Plus
interprets the entry as implied multiplication of the variables L, O, and G.
Calculate 3.76 P (L7.9 + ‡5) + 2 log 45.
3 Ë 76 ¥ £ Ì 7 Ë 9 Ã
y C 5 ¤ ¤ Ã 2 « 45 ¤

Í

MathPrint™

Classic

Multiple Entries on a Line
To enter two or more expressions or instructions on a line, separate them with colons (ƒ [:]).
All instructions are stored together in last entry (ENTRY).

Entering a Number in Scientific Notation
1. Enter the part of the number that precedes the exponent. This value can be an expression.
2. Press y D. â is pasted to the cursor location.
3. Enter the exponent, which can be one or two digits.
Note: If the exponent is negative, press Ì, and then enter the exponent.

When you enter a number in scientific notation, the TI-84 Plus does not automatically display
answers in scientific or engineering notation. The mode settings and the size of the number
determine the display format.
Functions
A function returns a value. For example, ÷, L, +, ‡, and log( are the functions in the example on the
previous page. In general, the first letter of each function is lowercase on the TI-84 Plus. Most
functions take at least one argument, as indicated by an open parenthesis following the name. For
example, sin( requires one argument, sin(value).

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

12

Note: The Catalog Help App contains syntax information for most of the functions in the catalog.

Instructions
An instruction initiates an action. For example, ClrDraw is an instruction that clears any drawn
elements from a graph. Instructions cannot be used in expressions. In general, the first letter of
each instruction name is uppercase. Some instructions take more than one argument, as indicated
by an open parenthesis at the end of the name. For example, Circle( requires three arguments,
Circle(X,Y,radius).
Interrupting a Calculation
To interrupt a calculation or graph in progress, which is indicated by the busy indicator, press É.
When you interrupt a calculation, a menu is displayed.
•

To return to the home screen, select 1:Quit.

•

To go to the location of the interruption, select 2:Goto.

When you interrupt a graph, a partial graph is displayed.
•

To return to the home screen, press ‘ or any non-graphing key.

•

To restart graphing, press a graphing key or select a graphing instruction.

TI-84 Plus Edit Keys
Keystrokes

Result

~ or |

Moves the cursor within an expression; these keys repeat.

} or †

Moves the cursor from line to line within an expression that occupies
more than one line; these keys repeat.
Moves the cursor from term to term within an expression in MathPrint™
mode; these keys repeat.
On the home screen, scrolls through the history of entries and answers.

y|

Moves the cursor to the beginning of an expression.

y~

Moves the cursor to the end of an expression.

y}

On the home screen, moves the cursor out of a MathPrint™ expression.
In the Y=editor, moves the cursor from a MathPrint™ expression to the
previous Y-var.

y†

In the Y=editor, moves the cursor from a MathPrint ™ expression to the
next Y-var.

Í

Evaluates an expression or executes an instruction.

‘

On a line with text on the home screen, clears the current line.
On a blank line on the home screen, clears everything on the home
screen.
In an editor, clears the expression or value where the cursor is located; it
does not store a zero.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

13

Keystrokes

Result

{

Deletes a character at the cursor; this key repeats.

y6

Changes the cursor to an underline (__); inserts characters in front of the
underline cursor; to end insertion, press y 6 or press |, }, ~, or
†.

y

Changes the cursor to Þ; the next keystroke performs a 2nd function
(displayed above a key and to the left); to cancel 2nd, press y again.

ƒ

Changes the cursor to Ø; the next keystroke performs a third function of
that key (displayed above a key and to the right), executes SOLVE
(Chapters 10 and 11), or accesses a shortcut menu; to cancel ƒ,
press ƒ or press |, }, ~, or †.

y7

Changes the cursor to Ø; sets alpha-lock; subsequent keystrokes
access the third functions of the keys pressed; to cancel alpha-lock,
press ƒ. If you are prompted to enter a name such as for a group or
a program, alpha-lock is set automatically.

„

Pastes an X in Func mode, a T in Par mode, a q in Pol mode, or an n in
Seq mode with one keystroke.

Setting Modes
Checking Mode Settings
Mode settings control how the TI-84 Plus displays and interprets numbers and graphs. Mode
settings are retained by the Constant ‘Memory™ feature when the TI-84 Plus is turned off. All
numbers, including elements of matrices and lists, are displayed according to the current mode
settings.
To display the mode settings, press z. The current settings are highlighted. Defaults are
highlighted below. The following pages describe the mode settings in detail.
Normal Sci Eng

Numeric notation

Float 0123456789

Number of decimal places in answers

Radian Degree

Unit of angle measure

Func Par Pol Seq

Type of graphing

Connected Dot

Whether to connect graph points

Sequential Simul

Whether to plot simultaneously

Real a+bi re^qi

Real, rectangular complex, or polar complex

Full Horiz G-T

Full screen, two split-screen modes

MathPrint Classic

Controls whether inputs and outputs on the home screen and in
the Y= editor are displayed as they are in textbooks

n/d Un/d

Displays results as simple fractions or mixed fractions

Answers: Auto Dec Frac

Controls the format of the answers

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

14

GoTo Format Graph: No Yes Shortcut to the Format Graph screen (y .)
StatDiagnostics: Off On

Determines which information is displayed in a statistical
regression calculation

StatWizards: On Off

Determines if syntax help prompts are provided for optional and
required arguments for many statistical, regression and
distribution commands and functions.
On: Selection of menu items in STAT CALC, DISTR

DISTR, DISTR DRAW and seq( in LIST OPS displays a
screen which provides syntax help (wizard) for the entry
of required and optional arguments into the command or
function. The function or command will paste the entered
arguments to the Home Screen history or to most other
locations where the cursor is available for input. Some
calculations will compute directly from the wizard. If a
command or function is accessed from N the
command or function will paste without wizard support.
Run the Catalog Help application (Œ) for more syntax
help when needed.
Off: The function or command will paste to the cursor
location with no syntax help (wizard).
Set Clock

Sets the time and date

Changing Mode Settings
To change mode settings, follow these steps.
1. Press † or } to move the cursor to the line of the setting that you want to change.
2. Press ~ or | to move the cursor to the setting you want.
3. Press Í.
Setting a Mode from a Program
You can set a mode from a program by entering the name of the mode as an instruction; for
example, Func or Float. From a blank program command line, select the mode setting from the
mode screen; the instruction is pasted to the cursor location.

Normal, Sci, Eng
Notation modes only affect the way an answer is displayed on the home screen. Numeric answers
can be displayed with up to 10 digits and a two-digit exponent and as fractions. You can enter a
number in any format.
Normal notation mode is the usual way we express numbers, with digits to the left and right of the
decimal, as in 12345.67.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

15

Sci (scientific) notation mode expresses numbers in two parts. The significant digits display with

one digit to the left of the decimal. The appropriate power of 10 displays to the right of å, as in

1.234567â4.

Eng (engineering) notation mode is similar to scientific notation. However, the number can have

one, two, or three digits before the decimal; and the power-of-10 exponent is a multiple of three, as
in 12.34567â3.
Note: If you select Normal notation, but the answer cannot display in 10 digits (or the absolute

value is less than .001), the TI-84 Plus expresses the answer in scientific notation.
Float, 0123456789
Float (floating) decimal mode displays up to 10 digits, plus the sign and decimal.
0123456789 (fixed) decimal mode specifies the number of digits (0 through 9) to display to the right
of the decimal for decimal answers.

The decimal setting applies to Normal, Sci, and Eng notation modes.
The decimal setting applies to these numbers, with respect to the Answer mode setting:
•

An answer displayed on the home screen

•

Coordinates on a graph (Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6)

•

The Tangent( DRAW instruction equation of the line, x, and dy/dx values (Chapter 8)

•

Results of CALCULATE operations (Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6)

•

The regression equation stored after the execution of a regression model (Chapter 12)

Radian, Degree
Angle modes control how the TI-84 Plus interprets angle values in trigonometric functions and
polar/rectangular conversions.
Radian mode interprets angle values as radians. Answers display in radians.
Degree mode interprets angle values as degrees. Answers display in degrees.

Func, Par, Pol, Seq
Graphing modes define the graphing parameters. Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6 describe these modes in
detail.
Func (function) graphing mode plots functions, where Y is a function of X (Chapter 3).
Par (parametric) graphing mode plots relations, where X and Y are functions of T (Chapter 4).
Pol (polar) graphing mode plots functions, where r is a function of q (Chapter 5).

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

16

Seq (sequence) graphing mode plots sequences (Chapter 6).

Connected, Dot
Connected plotting mode draws a line connecting each point calculated for the selected functions.
Dot plotting mode plots only the calculated points of the selected functions.

Sequential, Simul
Sequential graphing-order mode evaluates and plots one function completely before the next

function is evaluated and plotted.
Simul (simultaneous) graphing-order mode evaluates and plots all selected functions for a single
value of X and then evaluates and plots them for the next value of X.
Note: Regardless of which graphing mode is selected, the TI-84 Plus will sequentially graph all stat

plots before it graphs any functions.
Real, a+bi, re^qi
Real mode does not display complex results unless complex numbers are entered as input.

Two complex modes display complex results.
•

a+bi (rectangular complex mode) displays complex numbers in the form a+bi.

•

re^qi (polar complex mode) displays complex numbers in the form re^qi.

Note: When you use the n/d template, both n and d must be real numbers. For example, you can

enter

(the answer is displayed as a decimal value) but if you enter

, a data type error

displays. To perform division with a complex number in the numerator or denominator, use regular
division instead of the n/d template.

Full, Horiz, G-T
Full screen mode uses the entire screen to display a graph or edit screen.

Each split-screen mode displays two screens simultaneously.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

17

•

Horiz (horizontal) mode displays the current graph on the top half of the screen; it displays the
home screen or an editor on the bottom half (Chapter 9).

•

G-T (graph-table) mode displays the current graph on the left half of the screen; it displays the

table screen on the right half (Chapter 9).
MathPrint™, Classic
MathPrint™ mode displays most inputs and outputs the way they are shown in textbooks, such as
2

1 3
--- + --- and ∫ x 2 dx .
2 4
1

Classic mode displays expressions and answers as if written on one line, such as 1/2 + 3/4.
Note: If you switch between these modes, most entries will be preserved; however matrix

calculations will not be preserved.
n/d, Un/d
n/d displays results as a simple fraction. Fractions may contain a maximum of six digits in the
numerator; the value of the denominator may not exceed 9999.
Un/d displays results as a mixed number, if applicable. U, n, and d must be all be integers. If U is a
non-integer, the result may be converted U … n/d. If n or d is a non-integer, a syntax error is
displayed. The whole number, numerator, and denominator may each contain a maximum of three
digits.

Answers: Auto, Dec, Frac
Auto displays answers in a similar format as the input. For example, if a fraction is entered in an

expression, the answer will be in fraction form, if possible. If a decimal appears in the expression,
the output will be a decimal number.
Dec displays answers as integers or decimal numbers.
Frac displays answers as fractions, if possible.
Note: The Answers mode setting also affects how values in sequences, lists, and tables are
displayed. Choose Dec or Frac to ensure that values are displayed in either decimal or fraction
form. You can also convert values from decimal to fraction or fraction to decimal using the FRAC
shortcut menu or the MATH menu.

GoTo Format Graph: No, Yes
No does not display the FORMAT graph screen, but can always be accessed by pressing

y ..

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

18

Yes leaves the mode screen and displays the FORMAT graph screen when you press Í so

that you can change the graph format settings. To return to the mode screen, press z.
Stat Diagnostics: Off, On

Off displays a statistical regression calculation without the correlation coefficient (r) or the

coefficient of determination (r2).
On displays a statistical regression calculation with the correlation coefficient (r), and the

coefficient of determination (r2), as appropriate.
Stat Wizards: On, Off
On: Selection of menu items in STAT CALC, DISTR DISTR, DISTR DRAW and seq( in LIST OPS

displays a screen which provides syntax help (wizard) for the entry of required and optional
arguments into the command or function. The function or command will paste the entered
arguments to the Home Screen history or to most other locations where the cursor is available for
input. Some calculations will compute directly from the wizard. If a command or function is
accessed from N the command or function will paste without wizard support. Run the
Catalog Help application (Œ) for more syntax help when needed.
Off: The function or command will paste to the cursor location with no syntax help (wizard)
Set Clock
Use the clock to set the time, date, and clock display formats.

Using TI-84 Plus Variable Names
Variables and Defined Items
On the TI-84 Plus you can enter and use several types of data, including real and complex
numbers, matrices, lists, functions, stat plots, graph databases, graph pictures, and strings.
The TI-84 Plus uses assigned names for variables and other items saved in memory. For lists, you
also can create your own five-character names.
Variable Type

Names

Real numbers (including
fractions)

A, B, ... , Z, q

Complex numbers

A, B, ... , Z, q

Matrices

ãAä, ãBä, ãCä, ... , ãJä

Lists

L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, and user-defined names

Functions

Y1, Y2, ... , Y9, Y0

Parametric equations

X1T and Y1T, ... , X6T and Y6T

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

19

Variable Type

Names

Polar functions

r1, r2, r3, r4, r5, r6

Sequence functions

u, v, w

Stat plots

Plot1, Plot2, Plot3

Graph databases

GDB1, GDB2, ... , GDB9, GDB0

Graph pictures

Pic1, Pic2, ... , Pic9, Pic0

Strings

Str1, Str2, ... , Str9, Str0

Apps

Applications

AppVars

Application variables

Groups

Grouped variables

System variables

Xmin, Xmax, and others

Notes about Variables
•

You can create as many list names as memory will allow (Chapter 11).

•

Programs have user-defined names and share memory with variables (Chapter 16).

•

From the home screen or from a program, you can store to matrices (Chapter 10), lists
(Chapter 11), strings (Chapter 15), system variables such as Xmax (Chapter 1), TblStart
(Chapter 7), and all Y= functions (Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6).

•

From an editor, you can store to matrices, lists, and Y= functions (Chapter 3).

•

From the home screen, a program, or an editor, you can store a value to a matrix element or a
list element.

•

You can use DRAW STO menu items to store and recall graph databases and pictures
(Chapter 8).

•

Although most variables can be archived, system variables including r, T, X, Y, and q cannot be
archived (Chapter 18)

•

Apps are independent applications.which are stored in Flash ROM. AppVars is a variable

holder used to store variables created by independent applications. You cannot edit or change
variables in AppVars unless you do so through the application which created them.

Storing Variable Values
Storing Values in a Variable
Values are stored to and recalled from memory using variable names. When an expression
containing the name of a variable is evaluated, the value of the variable at that time is used.
To store a value to a variable from the home screen or a program using the ¿ key, begin on a
blank line and follow these steps.
1. Enter the value you want to store. The value can be an expression.
2. Press ¿. ! is copied to the cursor location.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

20

3. Press ƒ and then the letter of the variable to which you want to store the value.
4. Press Í. If you entered an expression, it is evaluated. The value is stored to the variable.

Displaying a Variable Value
To display the value of a variable, enter the name on a blank line on the home screen, and then
press Í.

Archiving Variables (Archive, Unarchive)
You can archive data, programs, or other variables in a section of memory called user data archive
where they cannot be edited or deleted inadvertently. Archived variables are indicated by asterisks
(ä) to the left of the variable names. Archived variables cannot be edited or executed. They can
only be seen and unarchived. For example, if you archive list L1, you will see that L1 exists in
memory but if you select it and paste the name L1 to the home screen, you won’t be able to see its
contents or edit it until it is unarchived.

Recalling Variable Values
Using Recall (RCL)
To recall and copy variable contents to the current cursor location, follow these steps. To leave
RCL, press ‘.
1. Press y K. RCL and the edit cursor are displayed on the bottom line of the screen.
2. Enter the name of the variable in one of five ways.
•

Press ƒ and then the letter of the variable.

•

Press y 9, and then select the name of the list, or press y [Ln].

•

Press y >, and then select the name of the matrix.

•

Press  to display the VARS menu or  ~ to display the VARS Y-VARS menu; then
select the type and then the name of the variable or function.

•

Press t a to display the YVAR shortcut menu, then select the name of the function.

•

Press  |, and then select the name of the program (in the program editor only).

The variable name you selected is displayed on the bottom line and the cursor disappears.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

21

3. Press Í. The variable contents are inserted where the cursor was located before you
began these steps.

Note: You can edit the characters pasted to the expression without affecting the value in

memory.

Scrolling Through Previous Entries on the Home Screen
You can scroll up through previous entries and answers on the home screen, even if you have
cleared the screen. When you find an entry or answer that you want to use, you can select it and
paste it on the current entry line.
Note: List and matrix answers cannot be copied and pasted to the new entry line. However, you

can copy the list or matrix command to the new entry line and execute the command again to
display the answer.
f Press } or † to move the cursor to the entry or answer you want to copy and then press
Í. TThe entry or answer that you copied is automatically pasted on the current input line at
the cursor location.
Note: If the cursor is in a MathPrint™ expression, press y } to move the cursor out of the
expression and then move the cursor to the entry or answer you want to copy.

f Press u or { to delete an entry/answer pair. After an entry/answer pair has been
deleted, it cannot be displayed or recalled again.

ENTRY (Last Entry) Storage Area
Using ENTRY (Last Entry)
When you press Í on the home screen to evaluate an expression or execute an instruction,
the expression or instruction is placed in a storage area called ENTRY (last entry). When you turn
off the TI-84 Plus, ENTRY is retained in memory.
To recall ENTRY, press y [. The last entry is pasted to the current cursor location, where
you can edit and execute it. On the home screen or in an editor, the current line is cleared and the
last entry is pasted to the line.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

22

Because the TI-84 Plus updates ENTRY only when you press Í, you can recall the previous
entry even if you have begun to enter the next expression.
5Ã7

Í
y[

Accessing a Previous Entry
The TI-84 Plus retains as many previous entries as possible in ENTRY, up to a capacity of 128
bytes. To scroll those entries, press y [ repeatedly. If a single entry is more than 128 bytes,
it is retained for ENTRY, but it cannot be placed in the ENTRY storage area.
1 ¿ƒ A

Í
2¿ƒ B
Í
y[

If you press y [ after displaying the oldest stored entry, the newest stored entry is displayed
again, then the next-newest entry, and so on.
y[

Executing the Previous Entry Again
After you have pasted the last entry to the home screen and edited it (if you chose to edit it), you
can execute the entry. To execute the last entry, press Í.
To execute the displayed entry again, press Í again. Each subsequent execution displays the
entry and the new answer.
0 ¿ƒ N

Í
ƒ N à 1 ¿ƒ N
ƒ ã:䊃ÄN ¡ Í
Í
Í

Multiple Entry Values on a Line
To store to ENTRY two or more expressions or instructions, separate each expression or
instruction with a colon, then press Í. All expressions and instructions separated by colons
are stored in ENTRY.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

23

When you press y [, all the expressions and instructions separated by colons are pasted to
the current cursor location. You can edit any of the entries, and then execute all of them when you
press Í.
Example: For the equation A=pr 2, use trial and error to find the radius of a circle that covers 200
square centimeters. Use 8 as your first guess.
8 ¿ ƒ R ƒ ã :ä
yB ƒ R ¡Í
y[

y | 7 y 6 Ë 95
Í

Continue until the answer is as accurate as you want.
Clearing ENTRY
Clear Entries (Chapter 18) clears all data that the TI-84 Plus is holding in the ENTRY storage area.

Using Ans in an Expression
When an expression is evaluated successfully from the home screen or from a program, the TI-84
Plus stores the answer to a storage area called Ans (last answer). Ans may be a real or complex
number, a list, a matrix, or a string. When you turn off the TI-84 Plus, the value in Ans is retained in
memory.
You can use the variable Ans to represent the last answer in most places. Press y Z to copy the
variable name Ans to the cursor location. When the expression is evaluated, the TI-84 Plus uses the
value of Ans in the calculation.
Calculate the area of a garden plot 1.7 meters by 4.2 meters. Then calculate the yield per square
meter if the plot produces a total of 147 tomatoes.
1Ë7¯4Ë2

Í
147 ¥ y Z
Í

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

24

Continuing an Expression
You can use Ans as the first entry in the next expression without entering the value again or
pressing y Z. On a blank line on the home screen, enter the function. The TI-84 Plus pastes
the variable name Ans to the screen, then the function.
5¥2

Í
¯9Ë9
Í

Storing Answers
To store an answer, store Ans to a variable before you evaluate another expression.
Calculate the area of a circle of radius 5 meters. Next, calculate the volume of a cylinder of radius
5 meters and height 3.3 meters, and then store the result in the variable V.
yB 5 ¡
Í
¯3Ë3
Í
¿ƒ V
Í

TI-84 Plus Menus
Using a TI-84 Plus Menu
You can access most TI-84 Plus operations using menus. When you press a key or key
combination to display a menu, one or more menu names appear on the top line of the screen.
•

The menu name on the left side of the top line is highlighted. Up to seven items in that menu
are displayed, beginning with item 1, which also is highlighted.

•

A number or letter identifies each menu item’s place in the menu. The order is 1 through 9,
then 0, then A, B, C, and so on. The LIST NAMES, PRGM EXEC, and PRGM EDIT menus only
label items 1 through 9 and 0.

•

When the menu continues beyond the displayed items, a down arrow ($) replaces the colon
next to the last displayed item.

•

When a menu item ends in an ellipsis (...), the item displays a secondary menu or editor when
you select it.

•

When an asterisk (ä) appears to the left of a menu item, that item is stored in user data archive
(Chapter 18).

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

25

Displaying a Menu
While using your TI-84 Plus, you often will need to
access items from its menus.
When you press a key that displays a menu, that
menu temporarily replaces the screen where you are
working. For example, when you press , the
MATH menu is displayed as a full screen.

After you select an item from a menu, the screen
where you are working usually is displayed again.

Moving from One Menu to Another
Some keys access more than one menu. When you
press such a key, the names of all accessible menus
are displayed on the top line. When you highlight a
menu name, the items in that menu are displayed.
Press ~ and | to highlight each menu name.
Note: FRAC shortcut menu items are also found on the

MATH NUM menu. FUNC shortcut menu items are
also found on the MATH MATH menu.

Scrolling a Menu
To scroll down the menu items, press †. To scroll up the menu items, press }.
To page down six menu items at a time, press ƒ †. To page up six menu items at a time,
press ƒ }.
To go to the last menu item directly from the first menu item, press }. To go to the first menu item
directly from the last menu item, press †.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

26

Selecting an Item from a Menu
You can select an item from a menu in either of two ways.
•

Press the number or letter of the item you want to
select. The cursor can be anywhere on the menu,
and the item you select need not be displayed on
the screen.

•

Press † or } to move the cursor to the item you
want, and then press Í.

After you select an item from a menu, the TI-84 Plus
typically displays the previous screen.

Note: On the LIST NAMES, PRGM EXEC, and PRGM EDIT menus, only items 1 through 9 and 0 are

labeled in such a way that you can select them by pressing the appropriate number key. To move
the cursor to the first item beginning with any alpha character or q, press the key combination for
that alpha character or q. If no items begin with that character, the cursor moves beyond it to the
next item.
Example: Calculate 3‡27.
†††Í
27 Í

Leaving a Menu without Making a Selection
You can leave a menu without making a selection in any of four ways.
•

Press y 5 to return to the home screen.

•

Press ‘ to return to the previous screen.

•

Press a key or key combination for a different menu, such as  or y 9.

•

Press a key or key combination for a different screen, such as o or y 0.

VARS and VARS Y-VARS Menus
VARS Menu
You can enter the names of functions and system variables in an expression or store to them
directly.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

27

To display the VARS menu, press . All VARS menu items display secondary menus, which
show the names of the system variables. 1:Window, 2:Zoom, and 5:Statistics each access more
than one secondary menu.
VARS Y-VARS
1: Window...

X/Y, T/q, and U/V/W variables

2: Zoom...

ZX/ZY, ZT/Zq, and ZU variables

3: GDB...

Graph database variables

4: Picture...

Picture variables

5: Statistics...

XY, G, EQ, TEST, and PTS variables

6: Table...

TABLE variables

7: String...

String variables

Selecting a Variable from the VARS Menu or VARS Y-VARS Menu
To display the VARS Y-VARS menu, press  ~. 1:Function, 2:Parametric, and 3:Polar display
secondary menus of the Y= function variables.
VARS Y-VARS
1: Function...

Yn functions

2: Parametric...

XnT, YnT functions, also found on the YVARS shortcut
menu

3: Polar...

rn functions, also found on the YVARS shortcut menu

4: On/Off...

Lets you select/deselect functions

Note:

•

The sequence variables (u, v, w) are located on the keyboard as the second functions of ¬,
−, and ®.

•

These Y= function variables are also on the YVAR shortcut menu.

To select a variable from the VARS or VARS Y-VARS menu, follow these steps.
1. Display the VARS or VARS Y-VARS menu.
•

Press  to display the VARS menu.

•

Press  ~ to display the VARS Y-VARS menu.

2. Select the type of variable, such as 2:Zoom from the VARS menu or 3:Polar from the
VARS Y-VARS menu. A secondary menu is displayed.
3. If you selected 1:Window, 2:Zoom, or 5:Statistics from the VARS menu, you can press ~ or |
to display other secondary menus.
4. Select a variable name from the menu. It is pasted to the cursor location.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

28

Equation Operating System (EOS™)
Order of Evaluation
The Equation Operating System (EOS™) defines the order in which functions in expressions are
entered and evaluated on the TI-84 Plus. EOS™ lets you enter numbers and functions in a simple,
straightforward sequence.
EOS™ evaluates the functions in an expression in this order.
Order Number Function
1

Functions that precede the argument, such as ‡, sin(, or log(

2

Functions that are entered after the argument, such as 2, M1, !, ¡, r, and
conversions

3

Powers and roots, such as 25 or 5

x

32

4

Permutations (nPr) and combinations (nCr)

5

Multiplication, implied multiplication, and division

6

Addition and subtraction

7

Relational functions, such as > or 

8

Logic operator and

9

Logic operators or and xor

Note: Within a priority level, EOS™ evaluates functions from left to right. Calculations within

parentheses are evaluated first.
Implied Multiplication
The TI-84 Plus recognizes implied multiplication, so you need not press ¯ to express
multiplication in all cases. For example, the TI-84 Plus interprets 2p, 4sin(46), 5(1+2), and (2…5)7 as
implied multiplication.
Note: TI-84 Plus implied multiplication rules, although like the TI-83, differ from those of the TI-82.
For example, the TI-84 Plus evaluates 1à2X as (1à2)…X, while the TI-82 evaluates 1à2X as 1à(2…X)

(Chapter 2).
Parentheses
All calculations inside a pair of parentheses are completed first. For example, in the expression
4(1+2), EOS first evaluates the portion inside the parentheses, 1+2, and then multiplies the answer,
3, by 4.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

29

Negation
To enter a negative number, use the negation key. Press Ì and then enter the number. On the
TI-84 Plus, negation is in the third level in the EOS™ hierarchy. Functions in the first level, such as
squaring, are evaluated before negation.
Example: MX2, evaluates to a negative number (or 0). Use parentheses to square a negative
number.

Note: Use the ¹ key for subtraction and the Ì key for negation. If you press ¹ to enter a negative
number, as in 9 ¯ ¹ 7, or if you press Ì to indicate subtraction, as in 9 Ì 7, an error occurs. If
you press ƒ A Ì ƒ B, it is interpreted as implied multiplication (A…MB).

Special Features of the TI-84 Plus
Flash – Electronic Upgradability
The TI-84 Plus uses Flash technology, which lets you upgrade to future software versions without
buying a new graphing calculator.
As new functionality becomes available, you can electronically upgrade your TI-84 Plus from the
Internet. Future software versions include maintenance upgrades that will be released free of
charge, as well as new applications and major software upgrades that will be available for
purchase from the TI Web site: education.ti.com. For details, refer to Chapter 19.
1.5 Megabytes of Available Memory
1.5 MB of available memory are built into the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition, and 0.5 MB for the
TI-84 Plus. About 24 kilobytes (K) of RAM (random access memory) are available for you to
compute and store functions, programs, and data.
About 1.5 M of user data archive allow you to store data, programs, applications, or any other
variables to a safe location where they cannot be edited or deleted inadvertently. You can also free
up RAM by archiving variables to user data. For details, refer to Chapter 18.
Applications
Many applications are preloaded on your TI-84 Plus and others can be installed to customize the
TI-84 Plus to your needs. The 1.5 MB archive space lets you store up to 94 applications at one
time on the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition. Applications can also be stored on a computer for later use or
linked unit-to-unit. There are 30 App slots for the TI-84 Plus. For details, refer to Chapter 18.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

30

Archiving
You can store variables in the TI-84 Plus user data archive, a protected area of memory separate
from RAM. The user data archive lets you:
•

Store data, programs, applications or any other variables to a safe location where they cannot
be edited or deleted inadvertently.

•

Create additional free RAM by archiving variables.

By archiving variables that do not need to be edited frequently, you can free up RAM for
applications that may require additional memory. For details, refer to: Chapter 18.

Other TI-84 Plus Features
The TI-84 Plus guidebook that is included with your graphing calculator has introduced you to
basic TI-84 Plus operations. This guidebook covers the other features and capabilities of the TI-84
Plus in greater detail.
Graphing
You can store, graph, and analyze up to 10 functions, up to six parametric functions, up to six polar
functions, and up to three sequences. You can use DRAW instructions to annotate graphs.
The graphing chapters appear in this order: Function, Parametric, Polar, Sequence, and DRAW.
For graphing details, refer to Chapters 3, 4, 5, 6, 8.
Sequences
You can generate sequences and graph them over time. Or, you can graph them as web plots or
as phase plots. For details, refer to Chapter 6.
Tables
You can create function evaluation tables to analyze many functions simultaneously. For details,
refer to Chapter 7.
Split Screen
You can split the screen horizontally to display both a graph and a related editor (such as the Y=
editor), the table, the stat list editor, or the home screen. Also, you can split the screen vertically to
display a graph and its table simultaneously. For details, refer to Chapter 9.
Matrices
You can enter and save up to 10 matrices and perform standard matrix operations on them. For
details, refer to Chapter 10.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

31

Lists
You can enter and save as many lists as memory allows for use in statistical analyses. You can
attach formulas to lists for automatic computation. You can use lists to evaluate expressions at
multiple values simultaneously and to graph a family of curves. For details, refer to:Chapter 11.
Statistics
You can perform one- and two-variable, list-based statistical analyses, including logistic and sine
regression analysis. You can plot the data as a histogram, xyLine, scatter plot, modified or regular
box-and-whisker plot, or normal probability plot. You can define and store up to three stat plot
definitions. For details, refer to Chapter 12.
Inferential Statistics
You can perform 16 hypothesis tests and confidence intervals and 15 distribution functions. You
can display hypothesis test results graphically or numerically. For details, refer to Chapter 13.
Applications
Press Œ to see the complete list of applications that came with your graphing calculator.
Visit education.ti.com/guides for additional Flash application guidebooks. For details, refer to
Chapter 14.
CATALOG
The CATALOG is a convenient, alphabetical list of all functions and instructions on the TI-84 Plus.
You can paste any function or instruction from the CATALOG to the current cursor location. For
details, refer to Chapter 15.
Programming
You can enter and store programs that include extensive control and input/output instructions. For
details, refer to Chapter 16.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

32

Archiving
Archiving allows you to store data, programs, or other variables to user data archive where they
cannot be edited or deleted inadvertently. Archiving also allows you to free up RAM for variables
that may require additional memory.
Archived variables are indicated by asterisks (ä) to the
left of the variable names.

For details, refer to Chapter 16.
Communication Link
The TI-84 Plus has a USB port using a USB unit-to-unit cable to connect and communicate with
another TI-84 Plus or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition. The TI-84 Plus also has an I/O port using an I/O
unit-to-unit cable to communicate with a TI-84 Plus Silver Edition, a TI-84 Plus, a TI-83 Plus Silver
Edition, a TI-83 Plus, a TI-83, a TI-82, a TI-73, CBL 2™, or a CBR™ System.
With TI Connect™ software and a USB computer cable, you can also link the TI-84 Plus to a
personal computer.
As future software upgrades become available on the TI Web site, you can download the software
to your PC and then use the TI Connect™ software and a USB computer cable to upgrade your
TI-84 Plus.
For details, refer to: Chapter 19

Error Conditions
Diagnosing an Error
The TI-84 Plus detects errors while performing these tasks.
•

Evaluating an expression

•

Executing an instruction

•

Plotting a graph

•

Storing a value

When the TI-84 Plus detects an error, it returns an error message as a menu title, such as
ERR:SYNTAX or ERR:DOMAIN. Appendix B describes each error type and possible reasons for the
error.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

33

•

If you select 1:Quit (or press y 5 or ‘), then the home screen is displayed.

•

If you select 2:Goto, then the previous screen is displayed with the cursor at or near the error
location.

Note: If a syntax error occurs in the contents of a Y= function during program execution, then the
Goto option returns to the Y= editor, not to the program.

Correcting an Error
To correct an error, follow these steps.
1. Note the error type (ERR:error type).
2. Select 2:Goto, if it is available. The previous screen is displayed with the cursor at or near the
error location.
3. Determine the error. If you cannot recognize the error, refer to Appendix B.
4. Correct the expression.

Chapter 1: Operating the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

34

Chapter 2:
Math, Angle, and Test Operations
Getting Started: Coin Flip
Getting Started is a fast-paced introduction. Read the chapter for details. For more probability
simulations, try the Probability Simulations App for the TI-84 Plus. You can download this App
from education.ti.com.
Suppose you want to model flipping a fair coin 10 times. You want to track how many of those 10
coin flips result in heads. You want to perform this simulation 40 times. With a fair coin, the
probability of a coin flip resulting in heads is 0.5 and the probability of a coin flip resulting in tails is
0.5.
1. Begin on the home screen. Press  | to
display the MATH PRB menu. Press 7 to select
7:randBin( (random Binomial). randBin( is pasted
to the home screen. Press 10 to enter the number
of coin flips. Press ¢. Press Ë 5 to enter the
probability of heads. Press ¢. Press 40 to enter
the number of simulations. Press ¤.
2. Press Í to evaluate the expression.
A list of 40 elements is generated with the first 7
displayed. The list contains the count of heads
resulting from each set of 10 coin flips. The list has
40 elements because this simulation was
performed 40 times. In this example, the coin
came up heads five times in the first set of 10 coin
flips, five times in the second set of 10 coin flips,
and so on.
3. Press ~ or | to view the additional counts in the
list. An arrow (MathPrint™ mode) or an ellipses
(Classic mode) indicate that the list continues
beyond the screen.
4. Press ¿ y d Í to store the data to the
list name L1. You then can use the data for
another activity, such as plotting a histogram
(Chapter 12).

MathPrint™

Note: Since randBin( generates random numbers, your

list elements may differ from those in the example.

Classic

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

35

Keyboard Math Operations
Using Lists with Math Operations
Math operations that are valid for lists return a list calculated element by element. If you use two
lists in the same expression, they must be the same length.

Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division
You can use + (addition, Ã), N (subtraction, ¹), … (multiplication, ¯), and à (division, ¥) with real
and complex numbers, expressions, lists, and matrices. You cannot use à with matrices. If you
need to input A/2, enter this as A †1/2 or A †.5.
valueA+valueB
valueA…valueB

valueA N valueB
valueA à valueB

Trigonometric Functions
You can use the trigonometric (trig) functions (sine, ˜; cosine, ™; and tangent, š) with real
numbers, expressions, and lists. The current angle mode setting affects interpretation. For
example, sin(30) in radian mode returns L.9880316241; in degree mode it returns .5.
sin(value)

cos(value)

tan(value)

You can use the inverse trig functions (arcsine, y ?; arccosine, y @; and arctangent,
y A) with real numbers, expressions, and lists. The current angle mode setting affects
interpretation.
sinL1(value)

cosL1(value)

tanL1(value)

Note: The trig functions do not operate on complex numbers.

Power, Square, Square Root
You can use ^ (power, ›), 2 (square, ¡), and ‡( (square root, y C) with real and complex
numbers, expressions, lists, and matrices. You cannot use ‡( with matrices.
MathPrint™: valuepower

value2

‡(value) È

Classic: value^power È

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

36

Inverse
You can use L1 (inverse, œ) with real and complex numbers, expressions, lists, and matrices. The
multiplicative inverse is equivalent to the reciprocal, 1àx.
value-1

log(, 10^(, ln(
You can use log( (logarithm, «), 10^( (power of 10, y G), and ln( (natural log, μ) with real
or complex numbers, expressions, and lists.
log(value)

MathPrint™: 10power
Classic: 10^(power)

ln(value)

Exponential
e^( (exponential, y J) returns the constant e raised to a power. You can use e^( with real or
complex numbers, expressions, and lists.
MathPrint™: epower

Classic: e^(power)

Constant
e (constant, y [e]) is stored as a constant on the TI-84 Plus. Press y [e] to copy e to the cursor
location. In calculations, the TI-84 Plus uses 2.718281828459 for e.

Negation
M (negation, Ì) returns the negative of value. You can use M with real or complex numbers,
expressions, lists, and matrices.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

37

Mvalue
EOS™ rules (Chapter 1) determine when negation is evaluated. For example, L42 returns a
negative number, because squaring is evaluated before negation. Use parentheses to square a
negated number, as in (L4)2.

Note: On the TI-84 Plus, the negation symbol (M) is shorter and higher than the subtraction sign (N),

which is displayed when you press ¹.

Pi
p (Pi, y B) is stored as a constant in the TI-84 Plus. In calculations, the TI-84 Plus uses
3.1415926535898 for p.

MATH Operations
MATH Menu
To display the MATH menu, press .
MATH NUM CPX PRB
1:

4Frac

Displays the answer as a fraction.

2:

4Dec

Displays the answer as a decimal.

3:

3

Calculates the cube.

4:

3

‡(

Calculates the cube root.

5:

x

‡

Calculates the xth root.

6:

fMin(

Finds the minimum of a function.

7:

fMax(

Finds the maximum of a function.

8:

nDeriv(

Computes the numerical derivative.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

38

MATH NUM CPX PRB
Computes the function integral.

9:

fnInt(

0:

summation

A:

logBASE(

Returns the logarithm of a specifed value determined from a
specified base: logBASE(value, base).

B:

Solver...

Displays the equation solver.

)(

Returns the sum of elements of list from start to end, where
start <= end.

4Frac, 4Dec
4Frac (display as a fraction) displays an answer as its rational equivalent. You can use 4Frac with
real or complex numbers, expressions, lists, and matrices. If the answer cannot be simplified or
the resulting denominator is more than three digits, the decimal equivalent is returned. You can
only use 4Frac following value.
value 4Frac

4Dec (display as a decimal) displays an answer in decimal form. You can use 4Dec with real or
complex numbers, expressions, lists, and matrices. You can only use 4Dec following value.
value 4Dec

Note: You can quickly convert from one number type to the other by using the FRAC shortcut
menu. Press t ^ 4:4F3 4D to convert a value.

Cube, Cube Root
3

(cube) returns the cube of value. You can use 3 with real or complex numbers, expressions, lists,
and square matrices.
value3

(cube root) returns the cube root of value. You can use 3‡( with real or complex numbers,
expressions, and lists.

3‡ (

3‡(value)

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

39

x‡

(Root)

x

‡ (xth root) returns the xth root of value. You can use x‡ with real or complex numbers, expressions,
and lists.
xthrootx‡value

fMin(, fMax(
fMin( (function minimum) and fMax( (function maximum) return the value at which the local
minimum or local maximum value of expression with respect to variable occurs, between lower and
upper values for variable. fMin( and fMax( are not valid in expression. The accuracy is controlled by
tolerance (if not specified, the default is 1âL5).
fMin(expression,variable,lower,upper[,tolerance])
fMax(expression,variable,lower,upper[,tolerance])
Note: In this guidebook, optional arguments and the commas that accompany them are enclosed

in brackets ([ ]).

MathPrint™

Classic

nDeriv(
nDeriv( (numerical derivative) returns an approximate derivative of expression with respect to
variable, given the value at which to calculate the derivative and H (if not specified, the default is
1âL3). nDeriv( is valid only for real numbers.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

40

MathPrint™:
Classic: nDeriv(expression,variable,value[,H])
nDeriv( uses the symmetric difference quotient method, which approximates the numerical

derivative value as the slope of the secant line through these points.
( x + ε ) – f ( x – ε )f′ ( x ) = f----------------------------------------2ε

As H becomes smaller, the approximation usually becomes more accurate. In MathPrint™ mode,
the default H is 1EM3. You can switch to Classic mode to change H for investigations.

MathPrint™

Classic

You can use nDeriv( once in expression. Because of the method used to calculate nDeriv(, the TI-84
Plus can return a false derivative value at a nondifferentiable point.
fnInt(
fnInt( (function integral) returns the numerical integral (Gauss-Kronrod method) of expression with
respect to variable, given lower limit, upper limit, and a tolerance (if not specified, the default is 1âL5).
fnInt( is valid only for real numbers.

MathPrint™:

Classic: fnInt(expression,variable,lower,upper[,tolerance])

In MathPrint™ mode, the default H is 1EM3. You can switch to Classic mode to change H for
investigations.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

41

Note: To speed the drawing of integration graphs (when fnInt( is used in a Y= equation), increase
the value of the Xres window variable before you press s.

Using the Equation Solver
Solver
Solver displays the equation solver, in which you can solve for any variable in an equation. The
equation is assumed to be equal to zero. Solver is valid only for real numbers.

When you select Solver, one of two screens is displayed.
•

The equation editor (see step 1 picture below) is displayed when the equation variable eqn is
empty.

•

The interactive solver editor is displayed when an equation is stored in eqn.

Entering an Expression in the Equation Solver
To enter an expression in the equation solver, assuming that the variable eqn is empty, follow
these steps.
1. Select B:Solver from the MATH menu to display the equation editor.

2. Enter the expression in any of three ways.
•

Enter the expression directly into the equation solver.

•

Paste a Y= variable name from the YVARS shortcut menu (t a) to the equation
solver.

•

Press y K, paste a Y= variable name from the YVARS shortcut menu, and press
Í. The expression is pasted to the equation solver.

The expression is stored to the variable eqn as you enter it.

3. Press Í or †. The interactive solver editor is displayed.

•

The equation stored in eqn is set equal to zero and displayed on the top line.

•

Variables in the equation are listed in the order in which they appear in the equation. Any
values stored to the listed variables also are displayed.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

42

•

The default lower and upper bounds appear in the last line of the editor
(bound={L1â99,1â99}).

•

A $ is displayed in the first column of the bottom line if the editor continues beyond the
screen.

Note: To use the solver to solve an equation such as K=.5MV2, enter eqn:0=KN.5MV2 in the

equation editor.
Entering and Editing Variable Values
When you enter or edit a value for a variable in the interactive solver editor, the new value is stored
in memory to that variable.
You can enter an expression for a variable value. It is evaluated when you move to the next
variable. Expressions must resolve to real numbers at each step during the iteration.
You can store equations to any VARS Y-VARS variables, such as Y1 or r6, and then reference the
variables in the equation. The interactive solver editor displays all variables of all Y= functions
recalled in the equation.

Solving for a Variable in the Equation Solver
To solve for a variable using the equation solver after an equation has been stored to eqn, follow
these steps.
1. Select B:Solver from the MATH menu to display the interactive solver editor, if not already
displayed.

2. Enter or edit the value of each known variable. All variables, except the unknown variable,
must contain a value. To move the cursor to the next variable, press Í or †.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

43

3. Enter an initial guess for the variable for which you are solving. This is optional, but it may help
find the solution more quickly. Also, for equations with multiple roots, the TI-84 Plus will
attempt to display the solution that is closest to your guess.

( upper + lower )
The default guess is calculated as ----------------------------------------- .
2
4. Edit bound={lower,upper}. lower and upper are the bounds between which the TI-84 Plus searches
for a solution. This is optional, but it may help find the solution more quickly. The default is
bound={L1â99,1â99}.
5. Move the cursor to the variable for which you want to solve and press ƒ \.

•

The solution is displayed next to the variable for which you solved. A solid square in the
first column marks the variable for which you solved and indicates that the equation is
balanced. An ellipsis shows that the value continues beyond the screen.
Note: When a number continues beyond the screen, be sure to press ~ to scroll to the

end of the number to see whether it ends with a negative or positive exponent. A very
small number may appear to be a large number until you scroll right to see the exponent.
•

The values of the variables are updated in memory.

•

leftNrt=diff is displayed in the last line of the editor. diff is the difference between the left

and right sides of the equation when evaluated at the calculated solution. A solid square in
the first column next to leftNrt indicates that the equation has been evaluated at the new
value of the variable for which you solved.
Editing an Equation Stored to eqn
To edit or replace an equation stored to eqn when the interactive equation solver is displayed,
press } until the equation editor is displayed. Then edit the equation.
Equations with Multiple Roots
Some equations have more than one solution. You can enter a new initial guess or new bounds to
look for additional solutions.
Further Solutions
After you solve for a variable, you can continue to explore solutions from the interactive solver
editor. Edit the values of one or more variables. When you edit any variable value, the solid

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

44

squares next to the previous solution and leftNrt=diff disappear. Move the cursor to the variable for
which you now want to solve and press ƒ \.
Controlling the Solution for Solver or solve(
The TI-84 Plus solves equations through an iterative process. To control that process, enter
bounds that are relatively close to the solution and enter an initial guess within those bounds. This
will help to find a solution more quickly. Also, it will define which solution you want for equations
with multiple solutions.
Using solve( on the Home Screen or from a Program
The function solve( is available only from CATALOG or from within a program. It returns a solution
(root) of expression for variable, given an initial guess, and lower and upper bounds within which the
solution is sought. The default for lower is L1â99. The default for upper is L1â99. solve( is valid only
for real numbers.
solve(expression,variable,guess[,{lower,upper}])
expression is assumed equal to zero. The value of variable will not be updated in memory. guess may
be a value or a list of two values. Values must be stored for every variable in expression, except
variable, before expression is evaluated. lower and upper must be entered in list format.

MathPrint™

Classic

MATH NUM (Number) Operations
MATH NUM Menu
To display the MATH NUM menu, press  ~.
MATH NUM CPX PRB
1:

abs(

Absolute value

2:

round(

Round

3:

iPart(

Integer part

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

45

MATH NUM CPX PRB
4:

fPart(

Fractional part

5:

int(

Greatest integer

6:

min(

Minimum value

7:

max(

Maximum value

8:

lcm(

Least common multiple

9:

gcd(

Greatest common divisor

0:

remainder( Reports the remainder as a whole number from a division of two

A:

4n/d3 4Un/d

Converts an improper fraction to a mixed number or a mixed number
to an improper fraction.

B:

4F3 4D

Converts a decimal to a fraction or a fraction to a decimal.

C:

Un/d

Displays the mixed number template in MathPrint™ mode. In Classic
mode, displays a small u between the whole number and fraction.

D:

n/d

Displays the fraction template in MathPrint™ mode. In Classic mode,
displays a thick fraction bar between the numerator and the
denominator.

whole numbers where the divisor is not zero.

abs(
abs( (absolute value) returns the absolute value of real or complex (modulus) numbers,

expressions, lists, and matrices.
Note: abs( is also found on the FUNC shortcut menu (t _ 1).
abs(value)

MathPrint™

Classic
Note: abs( is also available on the MATH CPX menu.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

46

round(
round( returns a number, expression, list, or matrix rounded to #decimals (9). If #decimals is omitted,
value is rounded to the digits that are displayed, up to 10 digits.
round(value[,#decimals])

iPart(, fPart(
iPart( (integer part) returns the integer part or parts of real or complex numbers, expressions, lists,

and matrices.
iPart(value)

fPart( (fractional part) returns the fractional part or parts of real or complex numbers, expressions,

lists, and matrices.
fPart(value)
Note: The way the fractional result is displayed depends on the Answers mode setting. To convert from one
format to another, use 4F3 4D on the FRAC shortcut menu (t ^ 4).

int(
int( (greatest integer) returns the largest integer  real or complex numbers, expressions, lists, and

matrices.
int(value)

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

47

Note: For a given value, the result of int( is the same as the result of iPart( for nonnegative numbers
and negative integers, but one integer less than the result of iPart( for negative noninteger

numbers.
min(, max(
min( (minimum value) returns the smaller of valueA and valueB or the smallest element in list. If listA
and listB are compared, min( returns a list of the smaller of each pair of elements. If list and value
are compared, min( compares each element in list with value.
max( (maximum value) returns the larger of valueA and valueB or the largest element in list. If listA
and listB are compared, max( returns a list of the larger of each pair of elements. If list and value are
compared, max( compares each element in list with value.
min(valueA,valueB)
min(list)
min(listA,listB)
min(list,value)

max(valueA,valueB)
max(list)
max(listA,listB)
max(list,value)

Note: min( and max( also are available on the LIST MATH menu.

lcm(, gcd(
lcm( returns the least common multiple of valueA and valueB, both of which must be nonnegative
integers. When listA and listB are specified, lcm( returns a list of the least common multiple of each
pair of elements. If list and value are specified, lcm( finds the least common multiple of each
element in list and value.
gcd( returns the greatest common divisor of valueA and valueB, both of which must be nonnegative
integers. When listA and listB are specified, gcd( returns a list of the greatest common divisor of
each pair of elements. If list and value are specified, gcd( finds the greatest common divisor of each
element in list and value.
lcm(valueA,valueB)
lcm(listA,listB)
lcm(list,value)

gcd(valueA,valueB)
gcd(listA,listB)
gcd(list,value)

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

48

remainder(
remainder( returns the remainder resulting from the division of two positive whole numbers, dividend
and divisor, each of which can be a list. The divisor cannot be zero. If both arguments are lists, they
must have the same number of elements. If one argument is a list and the other a non-list, the nonlist is paired with each element of the list, and a list is returned.
remainder(dividend, divisor)

remainder(list, divisor)

remainder(dividend, list)

remainder(list, list)

4n/d3 4Un/d
4n/d3 4Un/d converts an improper fraction to a mixed number or a mixed number to an improper
fraction. You can also access 4n/d3 4Un/d from the FRAC shortcut menu (t ^ 3).

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

49

4F3 4D
4F3 4D converts a fraction to a decimal or a decimal to a fraction. You can also access 4F3 4D from
the FRAC shortcut menu (t ^ 4).

Un/d
Un/d displays the mixed number template. You can also access Un/d from the FRAC shortcut
menu (t ^ 2). In the fraction, n and d must be non-negative integers.

MathPrint™

"
Classic

n/d
n/d displays the mixed number template. You can also access n/d from the FRAC shortcut menu
(t ^ 1). n and d can be real numbers or expressions but may not contain complex numbers.

MathPrint™

"
Classic

Entering and Using Complex Numbers
Complex-Number Modes
The TI-84 Plus displays complex numbers in rectangular form and polar form. To select a
complex-number mode, press z, and then select either of the two modes.
•

a+bi (rectangular-complex mode)

•

re^qi (polar-complex mode)

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

50

On the TI-84 Plus, complex numbers can be stored to variables. Also, complex numbers are valid
list elements.
In Real mode, complex-number results return an error, unless you entered a complex number as
input. For example, in Real mode ln(L1) returns an error; in a+bi mode ln(L1) returns an answer.
Real mode

a+bi mode

$

$

Entering Complex Numbers
Complex numbers are stored in rectangular form, but you can enter a complex number in
rectangular form or polar form, regardless of the mode setting. The components of complex
numbers can be real numbers or expressions that evaluate to real numbers; expressions are
evaluated when the command is executed.
You can enter fractions in complex numbers, but the output will always be a decimal value.

When you use the n/d template, a fraction cannot contain a complex number.

"
You can use division to compute the answer:

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

51

Note about Radian Versus Degree Mode
Radian mode is recommended for complex number calculations. Internally, the TI-84 Plus
converts all entered trigonometric values to radians, but it does not convert values for exponential,
logarithmic, or hyperbolic functions.
In degree mode, complex identities such as e^(iq) = cos(q) + i sin(q) are not generally true
because the values for cos and sin are converted to radians, while those for e^() are not. For
example, e^(i45) = cos(45) + i sin(45) is treated internally as e^(i45) = cos(p/4) + i sin(p/4).
Complex identities are always true in radian mode.
Interpreting Complex Results
Complex numbers in results, including list elements, are displayed in either rectangular or polar
form, as specified by the mode setting or by a display conversion instruction. In the example
below, polar-complex (re^qi) and Radian modes are set.
MathPrint™:

Classic:

Rectangular-Complex Mode
Rectangular-complex mode recognizes and displays a complex number in the form a+bi, where a is
the real component, b is the imaginary component, and i is a constant equal to

–1 .

To enter a complex number in rectangular form, enter the value of a (real component), press à or ¹,
enter the value of b (imaginary component), and press y V (constant).
real component(+ or N)imaginary component i

Polar-Complex Mode
Polar-complex mode recognizes and displays a complex number in the form re^qi, where r is the
magnitude, e is the base of the natural log, q is the angle, and i is a constant equal to

–1 .

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

52

To enter a complex number in polar form, enter the value of r (magnitude), press y J
(exponential function), enter the value of q (angle), press y V (constant), and then press ¤.
magnitudee^(anglei)

MathPrint™

Classic

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

53

MATH CPX (Complex) Operations
MATH CPX Menu
To display the MATH CPX menu, press  ~ ~.
MATH NUM

CPX PRB

1:

conj(

Returns the complex conjugate.

2:

real(

Returns the real part.

3:

imag(

Returns the imaginary part.

4:

angle(

Returns the polar angle.

5:

abs(

Returns the magnitude (modulus).

6:

4Rect

Displays the result in rectangular form.

7:

4Polar

Displays the result in polar form.

conj(
conj( (conjugate) returns the complex conjugate of a complex number or list of complex numbers.
conj(a+bi) returns aNbi in a+bi mode.
conj(re^(qi)) returns re^(Lqi) in re^qi mode.

MathPrint™

Classic

real(
real( (real part) returns the real part of a complex number or list of complex numbers.
real(a+bi) returns a.
real(re^(qi)) returns r†cos(q).

MathPrint™

Classic

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

54

imag(
imag( (imaginary part) returns the imaginary (nonreal) part of a complex number or list of complex
numbers.
imag(a+bi) returns b.
imag(re^(qi)) returns r†sin(q).

MathPrint™

Classic

angle(
angle( returns the polar angle of a complex number or list of complex numbers, calculated as tanL1

(b/a), where b is the imaginary part and a is the real part. The calculation is adjusted by +p in the
second quadrant or Np in the third quadrant.
angle(a+bi) returns tanL1(b/a).
angle(re^(qi)) returns q, where Lp 0 and < 1. To
generate a list of random-numbers, specify an integer > 1 for numtrials (number of trials). The
default for numtrials is 1.
rand[(numtrials)]
Note: To generate random numbers beyond the range of 0 to 1, you can include rand in an
expression. For example, rand5 generates a random number > 0 and < 5.

With each rand execution, the TI-84 Plus generates the same random-number sequence for a
given seed value. The TI-84 Plus factory-set seed value for rand is 0. To generate a different
random-number sequence, store any nonzero seed value to rand. To restore the factory-set seed
value, store 0 to rand or reset the defaults (Chapter 18).
Note: The seed value also affects randInt(, randNorm(, and randBin( instructions.

nPr, nCr
nPr (number of permutations) returns the number of permutations of items taken number at a time.
items and number must be nonnegative integers. Both items and number can be lists.
items nPr number
nCr (number of combinations) returns the number of combinations of items taken number at a time.
items and number must be nonnegative integers. Both items and number can be lists.
items nCr number

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

57

Factorial
! (factorial) returns the factorial of either an integer or a multiple of .5. For a list, it returns factorials
for each integer or multiple of .5. value must be ‚ L.5 and  69.
value!

Note: The factorial is computed recursively using the relationship (n+1)! = n…n!, until n is reduced
to either 0 or L1/2. At that point, the definition 0!=1 or the definition (L1à2)!=‡p is used to complete
the calculation. Hence:

n!=n…(nN1)…(nN2)… ... …2…1, if n is an integer ‚ 0
n!= n…(nN1)…(nN2)… ... …1à2…‡p, if n+1à2 is an integer ‚ 0
n! is an error, if neither n nor n+1à2 is an integer ‚ 0.
(The variable n equals value in the syntax description above.)
randInt(
randInt( (random integer) generates and displays a random integer within a range specified by
lower and upper integer bounds. To generate a list of random numbers, specify an integer > 1 for
numtrials (number of trials); if not specified, the default is 1.
randInt(lower,upper[,numtrials])

randNorm(
randNorm( (random Normal) generates and displays a random real number from a specified

Normal distribution. Each generated value could be any real number, but most will be within the
interval [mN3(s), m+3(s)]. To generate a list of random numbers, specify an integer > 1 for numtrials
(number of trials); if not specified, the default is 1.
randNorm(m,s[,numtrials])

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

58

randBin(
randBin( (random Binomial) generates and displays a random integer from a specified Binomial
distribution. numtrials (number of trials) must be ‚ 1. prob (probability of success) must be ‚ 0 and
 1. To generate a list of random numbers, specify an integer > 1 for numsimulations (number of
simulations); if not specified, the default is 1.
randBin(numtrials,prob[,numsimulations])

Note: The seed value stored to rand also affects randInt(, randNorm(, and randBin( instructions.

randIntNoRep(
randIntNoRep( returns a random ordered list of integers from a lower integer to an upper integer.

The list of integers may include the lower integer and the upper integer.
randIntNoRep(lowerint, upperint)

Classic

MathPrint™

ANGLE Operations
ANGLE Menu
To display the ANGLE menu, press y ;. The ANGLE menu displays angle indicators and
instructions. The Radian/Degree mode setting affects the TI-84 Plus’s interpretation of ANGLE
menu entries.
ANGLE
1:

¡

Degree notation

2:

'

DMS minute notation

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

59

ANGLE
3:

r

Radian notation

4:

8DMS

Displays as degree/minute/second

5:

R8Pr( Returns r, given X and Y

6:

R8Pq(

7:

P8Rx( Returns x, given R and q

8:

P8Ry( Returns y, given R and q

Returns q, given X and Y

Entry Notation
DMS (degrees/minutes/seconds) entry notation comprises the degree symbol (¡), the minute
symbol ('), and the second symbol ("). degrees must be a real number; minutes and seconds must be
real numbers ‚ 0.
Note: DMS entry notation does not support fractions in minutes or seconds.
degrees¡minutes'seconds"

For example, we know that 30 degrees is the same as p/6 radians, and we can verify that by
looking at the values in degree and radian modes. If the angle mode is not set to Degree, you must
use ¡ so that the TI-84 Plus can interpret the argument as degrees, minutes, and seconds.
Degree mode

Radian mode

Degree
¡ (degree) designates an angle or list of angles as degrees, regardless of the current angle mode
setting. In Radian mode, you can use ¡ to convert degrees to radians.
value¡
{value1,value2,value3,value4,...,value n}¡

¡ also designates degrees (D) in DMS format.
' (minutes) designates minutes (M) in DMS format.
" (seconds) designates seconds (S) in DMS format.
Note: " is not on the ANGLE menu. To enter ", press ƒ [ã].

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

60

Radians
r

(radians) designates an angle or list of angles as radians, regardless of the current angle mode
setting. In Degree mode, you can use r to convert radians to degrees.

valuer
Degree mode

8DMS
8DMS (degree/minute/second) displays answer in DMS format. The mode setting must be Degree
for answer to be interpreted as degrees, minutes, and seconds. 8DMS is valid only at the end of a
line.
answer8DMS

R8Pr (, R8Pq(, P8Rx(, P8Ry(
R8Pr( converts rectangular coordinates to polar coordinates and returns r. R8Pq( converts
rectangular coordinates to polar coordinates and returns q. x and y can be lists.
R8Pr(x,y), R8Pq(x,y)
Note: Radian mode is set.

P8Rx( converts polar coordinates to rectangular coordinates and returns x. P8Ry( converts polar
coordinates to rectangular coordinates and returns y. r and q can be lists.
P8Rx(r,q), P8Ry(r,q)
Note: Radian mode is set.

Chapter 2: Math, Angle, and Test Operations

61

TEST (Relational) Operations
TEST Menu
To display the TEST menu, press y :.
This operator...

TEST

Returns 1 (true) if...

LOGIC

1: =

Equal

2: ƒ

Not equal to

3: >

Greater than

4: ‚

Greater than or equal to

5: <

Less than

6: 

Less than or equal to

Ä=, ƒ, >, ‚, <, 
Relational operators compare valueA and valueB and return 1 if the test is true or 0 if the test is false.
valueA and valueB can be real numbers, expressions, or lists. For = and ƒ only, valueA and valueB also
can be matrices or complex numbers. If valueA and valueB are matrices, both must have the same
dimensions.
Relational operators are often used in programs to control program flow and in graphing to control
the graph of a function over specific values.
valueA=valueB
valueA>valueB
valueA

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