A few months ago, we posted our favorite graphing calculators on the market.  What many students don’t realize is how important they are, when it comes to any type of math class.  Many students just look at the price, and then shrug off the thought of getting one.

When you buy a graphing calculator, you’re making a good investment, and let me tell you why, as I list the pros of owning one.

More than just a calculator

With so many graphing calculators out there, it’s hard to choose just one.  What you will see with most of them though are that you’re going to invest into one that is more than just a calculator.  On most versions, you can install neat applications, create graphs, and also fine other programs that are going to make life a lot easier.

Solves functions in a flash

If you have a simple calculator, and you want to solve x+ 2 = 5, is your basic calculator going to do this for you?  It’s not going to.  With a graphing one, you’ll be able to input a formula the exact way you see it, and it will give you the answer for you.  This is great for those that get stuck on a problem.  I’m not saying that you should just use this for every problem, because you’re not going to learn that much!

Easy to use

Many students will take a glance at these, and instantly think that it isn’t for them.  What they dont’ realize is that it’s actually fairly easy to use.  As long as you read through the owner’s manual, you won’t have a hard time learning how to use one.

Play games on it as well

If the points above aren’t enough for you, it also can keep you entertained if you’re bored in class, or waiting for class to start.  From games like Tetris, to Super Mario, there are hundreds of games that you can download to play on your calculator.

If you’re in any advanced math class such as Statistics, or Calculus, I would recommend you look into one.  It’s going to make the class a lot easier, and it’s going to do a lot more than your typical calculator you can pick up for $10.