The Texas Instruments TI-36 Solar calculator has functions for calculating combinations and permutations, specifically using the nCr and nPr commands. To calculate combinations, such as C(5,3), the sequence involves entering the first number, the "a" button, the second number, the "b" button, and then pressing the "2nd" button followed by "nCr." For permutations, the process is the same, but "nPr" is used instead of "nCr" at the final step. This method is effective for quickly finding combinations and permutations on the TI-36. Understanding these steps enhances the calculator's utility for mathematical calculations.