User Manual

28 Evaluating Expressions
• â stands for "x10" and the calculator interprets the entire number as (1.23.45 x 10
-
2
) as if it was entered with parentheses.
When you enter a number in scientific notation, the TI-84PlusCE 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, log( and sin( are functions. In general, the first
letter of each function is lowercase. Most functions take at least one argument, as
indicated by an open parenthesis following the name. For example, sin( requires one
argument, sin (value).
Note: To see the arguments of a function or command in the calculator, find the item
in a menu or y N and press +. For most menu items, a Catalog Help screen will
display and the syntax of the arguments will be displayed.
Instructions
An instruction (command) initiates an action on the calculator. For example, ClrDraw is
an instruction to the calculator to clear 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, on the TI-84PlusCE, Circle( requires
three arguments, and has two optional arguments: Circle(X,Y,radius[,color,
linestyle]).
Interrupting a Calculation
To interrupt a calculation or graph in progress, which is indicated by the busy indicator
in the status bar, 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.