PERT Calculator Use Policy Checker

Determine if you are allowed to use a calculator on the PERT exam based on official guidelines.

Check Your Section

What is the PERT Calculator Policy?

A common question students ask is, “are you allowed to use a calculator on the pert?” The answer is not a simple yes or no; it depends entirely on the section of the test you are taking. The Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) is Florida’s official college placement test, designed to assess your skills in mathematics, reading, and writing. To ensure fairness and accurately measure your abilities, the policy on calculator usage is very specific and strictly enforced.

Personal calculators are never allowed during any part of the PERT exam. This rule eliminates advantages from using familiar or advanced devices. However, the test administrators recognize that basic calculations are sometimes necessary to solve higher-level math problems. For this reason, the testing software itself provides an on-screen calculator for specific questions within the Mathematics section only.

PERT Calculator Rules Explained

The logic for whether a calculator is permitted is built directly into the PERT system. You do not need to decide when to use it; the option will appear automatically when it is allowed. Here is a breakdown of the official rules.

Official PERT Calculator Policy by Test Section

Test Section	Personal Calculator Allowed?	On-Screen Calculator Provided?
Mathematics	No	Yes, for certain questions only.
Reading	No	No, not applicable.
Writing	No	No, not applicable.

The on-screen tool is typically a standard 4-function calculator. It appears as a pop-up icon you can click on when you reach a question where its use is permitted. For all other questions, and for the entire Reading and Writing sections, you must rely on your own mental math and problem-solving skills.

Practical Examples

Understanding the policy in context can help avoid confusion on test day. Here are a few realistic scenarios.

Example 1: Student Taking the PERT Math Section

• Input: A student selects “Mathematics” in the policy checker.
• Situation: During the test, they encounter a complex algebra problem. A calculator icon appears on the screen.
• Result: The student is allowed to click the icon and use the on-screen 4-function calculator to find the solution. On the next question, the icon is gone, and they must solve it without a calculator.

Example 2: Student Bringing a Graphing Calculator

• Input: A student brings their own TI-84 Plus to the testing center.
• Situation: The test proctor informs them that personal calculators are strictly prohibited.
• Result: The student must store their calculator with their personal belongings and cannot use it during the exam. This is a critical rule when considering are you allowed to use a calculator on the pert.

How to Use This PERT Policy Calculator

Our tool is designed to give you a quick and clear answer based on the official rules.

1. Select the Test Section: Choose Mathematics, Reading, or Writing from the dropdown menu. This is the only factor that determines the calculator policy.
2. Click “Check Calculator Policy”: The tool will instantly process your selection.
3. Review the Result: The box below the button will update with a clear “Allowed (On-Screen Only)” or “Not Allowed” message, along with a brief explanation of the specific rule for that section.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Use on the PERT

Several principles guide the PERT’s strict calculator policy.

• Test Section: This is the primary factor. Math is the only section with a calculator.
• Fairness and Equity: Providing a standardized on-screen tool ensures every student has access to the exact same functions, preventing disadvantages.
• Focus of Assessment: The Reading and Writing sections test verbal and grammatical skills, where a calculator has no relevant function. The Math section tests concepts, not just arithmetic, so the calculator is only provided when complex calculations would distract from the core problem.
• Test Integrity: Prohibiting personal calculators prevents the use of devices with stored formulas, notes, or internet connectivity, which would be considered cheating.
• Question-Specific Availability: Even within the Math section, the calculator is not always available. This shows the test is designed to assess mental math and foundational skills on many questions.
• Testing Accommodations: Students with documented disabilities may have specific accommodations, but the general policy against personal calculators is rarely waived. This must be arranged with the testing center beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I bring my own scientific or graphing calculator to the PERT?

No, personal calculators of any kind are strictly forbidden. If you bring one, you will have to store it and will not be able to use it.

2. Is the on-screen calculator available for every question on the math test?

No. The calculator icon will only appear for specific questions that the test designers have deemed appropriate for calculator use. You should be prepared to solve many math problems without one.

3. What kind of calculator is provided during the PERT test?

The test provides a basic, on-screen 4-function calculator (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).

4. Why can’t I use my own calculator? I’m more comfortable with it.

The rule ensures fairness and test security. Prohibiting external devices prevents any possibility of cheating and guarantees that all test-takers have access to the same tool.

5. What happens if I’m caught using a personal calculator or phone?

Using an unauthorized device is a serious violation of testing rules. Your test will be invalidated, and you may face further disciplinary action from the institution.

6. Does the ‘no personal calculator’ rule apply if I take the PERT remotely?

Yes. The rules are the same whether you test in person or remotely. Remote proctoring software monitors your computer and environment to ensure rules are followed.

7. Where can I find the official rules about what I can bring to the test?

The official rules are provided by the Florida Department of Education and the testing center where you take the exam, such as Miami Dade College or Valencia College. Always check with your specific testing location.

8. Are there practice tests that simulate the on-screen calculator?

Yes, many official PERT study guides and practice tests include a simulated on-screen calculator to help you get used to how it works.