I'm taking a math class that requires a graphing calculator of some kind, TI-83 or better. We have a TI-85 sitting around that I can use, but the calculator my professor will be using is a TI-83. I also have previous experience with a TI-83, but none with the TI-85. I can't figure out how to turn decimals into fractions with the TI-85, and a quick google search gets me nothing correct, and the only alternative is sifting through a 300 page manual on the thing. Should I just bite the bullet and buy a TI-83 so things won't be as complicated, or are things not as confusing as I think they are with the TI-85?

TL;DR: Save $100 by using a calculator I don't know how to use properly, or buy the one my professor uses. Also, how do you turn decimals into fractions with the TI-85?

This is my first year at community college, so any advice is really appreciated.

As for the decimal to fractions; I'll hazard a guess and say you type in the decimal, then press "math" and choose the >frac. Then you press enter, and it gives you a fraction. That's how my TI-84 plus works anyway. You'll get used to the TI-85, really. It won't be too different.

TI 84 silver is well rounded. not sure about an 83 since ive never used one but i assume its quite similar. to change decimal to fraction just press "math"/enter/enter (if in fact the fraction is your 1st choice. what kind of math class are you taking?

if possible, can you check out a calculator at your school library?

I've got a TI-83, how bout we just mail each other the calculators, call it even.

Math doesn't seem to be doing what everyone assumes it does, google gave me the same answer. The math option brings up 5 options: "num, prob, angle, hyp, and misc" which brings up "sum, prod, sea(q?), lcm, gcd". I've tried a few of the options, and all I get are errors, so I'm probably not doing the right thing. Also, the TI-85 was apparently discontinued in 1997, maybe that has something to do with it? :tongue:

The class I'm taking is called "Intermediate Algebra". I haven't checked the school library so thats an option, but the school store only had non graphing calculators, so I get the feeling they won't.

Is a TI graphing calculator mandatory? As in does the text use the TI series (I hate that)

I had a Casio; it seemed capable enough and half the cost :shrug:

i guess the 84 has an updated os...

if its a texas book, it will have the TI series (generally the 84) on the pages.

Personally, I perfer to use my T-51b... Never fails to help me solve my problems.

I wish I did Maths that required high powered calculators. Those were the days...