GRE Physics Exam: Calculator Rules & RPN Advice

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the rules regarding calculator usage for the GRE Physics Exam, including specific inquiries about allowed models and advice on RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) calculators. Participants share their experiences and recollections related to the exam format and preparation.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the specific calculators allowed for the GRE Physics Exam, mentioning their HP48GX and seeking recommendations for RPN calculators.
  • Another participant asserts that calculators are not allowed on the GRE Physics Test, although they acknowledge uncertainty due to the passage of time since their own exam.
  • A third participant confirms that calculators are not permitted, referencing a previous comment by another user.
  • One participant reflects on the nature of the test, suggesting that it is designed to be manageable without a calculator, implying that reliance on one may indicate a misunderstanding of the questions.
  • A participant shares their recent experience taking the exam, discussing their performance and background in physics, while expressing concerns about their score's adequacy for admission to specific universities.
  • Another participant reiterates the point about calculators not being allowed, sharing a personal anecdote about using a slide-rule during their own exam, although they do not recall the specific calculator policy at that time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that calculators are not allowed on the GRE Physics Exam, though some express uncertainty based on their past experiences. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the specifics of calculator recommendations, as the initial inquiry remains unanswered.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference their memories of the exam, which may not reflect current policies or practices. There is also mention of varying levels of preparation and familiarity with physics topics among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals preparing for the GRE Physics Exam, particularly those interested in understanding calculator policies and seeking advice on exam 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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