A graphing calculator is an advanced calculator that allows you to graph equations in addition to performing the calculation functions of a scientific calculator.

You will most often need to use a graphing calculator in upper level math classes such as trigonometry and calculus, but they are also necessary for some advanced science courses. Public schools provide graphing calculators for student use, but it is often more convenient to purchase one of your own.

The most prominent feature of a graphing calculator is its LCD screen. This allows the calculator to display graphs, but it also serves as a screen for all other functions. This lets your track your calculations and find potential errors better than other calculators because you can see all of the numbers you enter.

A graphing calculator allows you to type in any equation and see it graphed on the x,y axis. You may enter several equations and use the graphs to determine coordinates like points of intersection. You can set the size of your graph and zoom in and out to expand it beyond the limits of a piece of graph paper. A graphing calculator also allows students to graph equations that are too difficult and time consuming to produce by hand.

With a special screen attachment and an overhead projector, a teacher can display his or her screen to an entire class. This gives the graphing calculator a distinct advantage over other types of calculators when used to explain new operations to students.

A graphing calculator usually can be connected to another calculator or a computer to transfer data, such as programs and equations. Unlike other calculators, a graphing calculator has memory that allows it to store these programs and equations.

Some students will even use a graphing calculator to play games. The same functions that allow users to create and share mathematical programs also allow for simple games.