A scientific calculator is needed for IGCSE Physics. The wrong calculator or incorrect use of a calculator is a common cause of lost marks.
What is allowed
Cambridge allows a scientific calculator in all Physics papers. The calculator must:
- Not have a computer algebra system (CAS)
- Not be programmable (no stored programs)
- Not have a communication capability (no Bluetooth, Wi-Fi)
- Not make noise
Graphing calculators that meet these criteria are generally allowed, but check with your school.
Recommended features
A suitable scientific calculator should have:
- Standard form / scientific notation button (EXP or x10^x)
- Trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan and their inverses)
- Square and square root buttons
- Power button (x^y or y^x)
- Ans button (to recall the previous answer)
- Memory function
Popular models
The Casio fx-82 series (e.g., fx-82ES Plus, fx-82EX) is widely used and meets all Cambridge requirements. The Casio fx-991 series is also popular and offers more features.
Getting familiar
Use the same calculator throughout your revision and in the exam. Know where every button is without looking. Practise entering standard form values regularly.
Common calculator errors to avoid
- Entering 3.2 x 10^8 as 3.2 x 10 x 8 (use the EXP button instead)
- Forgetting brackets when dividing by a product
- Not converting degrees to radians (IGCSE Physics uses degrees; make sure your calculator is in degrees mode, not radians)
Need Help Applying This?
A 0625 specialist can work through the student's current paper or question and help identify whether the main difficulty is content, mathematics, practical reasoning or exam technique.