Calculator Tips and Tricks for the FE Exam
Jan 03, 2025
The FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) exam is a crucial step in becoming a professional engineer. Passing this exam demonstrates your competency in subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, engineering economics, ethics, and more. One of the most important tools you'll need during the FE exam is your calculator. Having an in-depth knowledge of your calculator's features and functions can give you a major advantage on exam day. Here are some pro tips and tricks to get the most out of your FE exam calculator.
Choose the Right Calculator
The NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying), the organization that administers the FE exam, publishes a list of approved calculators - stick to calculators on this list only. The Casio FX-115ES PLUS is a popular choice that has all the necessary functions for the exam. Avoid using your phone or smartwatch calculator, as these are prohibited in the testing center.
Get Familiar with The Calculator
Practice using your NCEES-approved calculator extensively and familiarize yourself with your tool until navigating it becomes second nature. Learn all the functions, especially conversions, matrices, complex numbers, and statistical features. Configure the calculator's mode settings to your preference. The exam won't allow pre-written programs, so make sure it becomes second nature to perform all necessary calculations manually. Time yourself working through practice problems using only the calculator.
Manage Equations
Some calculators allow solving equations with multiple unknowns and variables. This can help save time on the algebra-heavy sections of the FE exam. Look for equation-solving capabilities for linear, quadratic, cubic, and higher-order polynomials. Your calculator may also support equation manipulation features - these allow rearranging equations into different forms. Leverage these advanced math tools to avoid getting bogged down in complex algebraic calculations.
1. System of Equation
Systems of equations with multiple variables are a common FE exam obstacle. Solving by hand can be time-consuming and error-prone. Fortunately, a Casio FX-115ES PLUS calculator has built-in functionality to solve 2x2 and 3x3 systems of linear equations. Under the MODE SETUP, access EQN. Select 1:anX+bnY=cn for 2x2 system, and 2:anX+bnY+cnZ=dn for 3x3 system. Input the correct value, and the calculator will efficiently solve the variable values. Commit this process to memory and practice on sample systems ahead of time. This calculator function will greatly accelerate solutions, leaving you more time to analyze results. For step-by-step guidance and examples of solving systems of equations on the Casio FX-115ES PLUS, utilize this helpful link.
2. Polynomial Equation
Polynomial equations are ubiquitous on the FE exam, testing your proficiency with algebraic manipulation. These equations feature variables raised to whole number powers. Solving various polynomial forms, from simple quadratics to complex cubics, will be essential to your FE exam success. Your calculator can expedite solutions to polynomial equations of all orders. FE-approved calculators contain dedicated keys for solving quadratics, cubics, quartics, and higher-order polynomial equations up to the 5th degree. Consult your calculator’s user guide for instructions specific to the make and model. For example, Casio FX-115ES PLUS users can find the polynomial equation-solving function under the MODE SETUP > EQN menu. The provided links demonstrate step-by-step approaches to solving 2nd and 3rd-order polynomial equations, as well as strategies for resolving polynomial inequalities. Mastering these fundamental skills will instill confidence when confronting polynomial equations on the FE exam.
Link 2: Solving Inequality
Manage Complex Numbers
Some engineering exam topics, like electrical engineering, involve working with complex numbers in polar and rectangular forms. Your calculator should allow operations with complex numbers, including magnitudes, angles, exponents, logarithms, and more.
1. Set Up Complex Mode
Step 1: Access MODE SETUP menu and select 2:CMPLX. This will put your calculator in complex mode.
Step 2: Next, hit SHIFT then MODE SETUP. Click the down arrow (↓), and choose 3:CMPLX as this allows you to choose your complex result to be rectangular or polar. Select 1:a+bi if you want it to be rectangular and 2:(r∠θ).
With these settings activated, you can perform arithmetic, conversions, and more with complex numbers on your calculator. Commit these setup steps to memory and practice using the complex number functions to build speed and accuracy. Utilize this video tutorial for in-depth visual guidance on working with complex numbers on the Casio FX-115ES PLUS calculator.
Leverage Matrices
Matrices are heavily used in the General section of the FE exam in topics like linear algebra. Having strong matrix features in your calculator is essential.
1. Set Up Matrices
Step 1: Access MODE SETUP menu and select 6:MATRIX. From there, you can create your matrix A (1:MatA) or matrix B (2:MatB) or matrix C (3:MatC).
Step 2: After selecting the matrix name, you will then choose the matrix dimension (mxn) such as (3x3,1x2,2x3, etc.) based on your given matrix. Input the value accordingly. After inputting all the values, hit the AC to exit from the matrix.
Step 3: To retrieve the defined matrix, use SHIFT and 4. You will see 3: MatA 4:MatB or 5:MatC. Select the correct matrix name in which you created previously in step 1.
With matrices stored, you can now perform arithmetic, find determinants, calculate eigenvalues, transpose, and more. Repeatedly create sample matrices and execute various operations to develop familiarity. Commit the matrix setup and manipulation processes to memory through practice. Having mastery over matrices will expedite solutions and build confidence on exam day. Refer to this excellent video tutorial demonstrating the matrix capabilities of the Casio FX-115ES PLUS calculator.
Know When Not to Use Your Calculator
While your calculator is important for the FE exam, don't become over-reliant. Time yourself first working through practice problems by hand - don't reach for the calculator too quickly. Performing some calculations manually helps improve your speed, accuracy, and understanding. Save your calculator for checking work and handling complex operations. Finding the right balance between manual and calculator work will lead to FE exam success.
Conclusion
Your calculator is one of your most valuable tools for passing the exam. Mastering the tips and tricks above will help you use your calculator effectively. Practicing with these tips will help build speed, accuracy, and confidence with your calculator. Make the calculator your friend, and it will help power you through even the toughest FE exam questions.
Trust the experts. With over 20 years of experience, School of PE is the leading choice for FE exam prep. Register for an FE exam review course today and join thousands of successful students who have passed their FE exam on their first try.
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