GRE Physics Exam: Calculator Rules & RPN Advice

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SUMMARY

The GRE Physics Exam does not permit the use of calculators, including models such as the HP48GX. Test-takers should be prepared to perform calculations using pencil and paper, as the exam is designed to facilitate this approach. The discussion highlights that the test consists of multiple-choice questions, making it manageable without a calculator. Participants shared their experiences, noting that a solid understanding of fundamental physics concepts is crucial for success, especially for those who may not have recent academic exposure.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GRE Physics Exam format and requirements
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts such as optics, kinematics, thermodynamics, and relativity
  • Knowledge of multiple-choice test-taking strategies
  • Awareness of study materials, such as the Ohanian physics book
NEXT STEPS
  • Research GRE Physics Exam preparation strategies
  • Explore effective study resources for physics, focusing on core topics
  • Learn about the structure and scoring of the GRE general test
  • Investigate alternative calculators and tools for physics problem-solving outside of the GRE context
USEFUL FOR

Prospective graduate students in physics, educators preparing students for standardized tests, and anyone seeking to understand the GRE Physics Exam's requirements and preparation strategies.

Bill Foster
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Has anyone reading this post taken the GRE subject exam in physics? If so, do you know what calculators they allow? I have a HP48GX (or something like that).

If they won't allow that, can you recommend a good calculator that does RPN?
 
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I don't think they allow calculators. (I admit it's been quite a while since I took the GRE!)
 
As Doc Al mentioned, the GRE Physics Test does not allow any calculators. Sorry!
 
Great.
 
Actually, now that I recall, the test is multiple choice and set up so that any needed calculations are easy enough to do with pencil and paper. If you need to reach for a caculator, you're probably doing something wrong.
 
I took it yesterday. I answered 36 questions, so the best score I can hope for is in the mid 600s. I don't think it's a good score unless you take into consideration the fact that I don't have a degree in physics and my last physics courses were about 20 years ago. And the book I studied from is even older (probably the 1st edition of the Ohanian physics book). I didn't even study electromagnetics or quantum mechanics. Mainly optics, kinematics, thermodynamics and relativity.

My score probably isn't good enough to get me into Georgia Tech, where I applied. Fortunately for me, I also applied at UGA and GSU and neither of those institutions require the GRE physics test; they only require the GRE general, and I should do well on that.
 
Doc Al said:
I don't think they allow calculators. (I admit it's been quite a while since I took the GRE!)
I was still using a slide-rule back when I took it.:blushing: Don't remember if they were allowed though.
 

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