GRE Physics Exam: Calculator Rules & RPN Advice

AI Thread Summary
The GRE Physics Test does not permit the use of calculators, including models like the HP48GX. The exam is structured as multiple choice, designed so that calculations can be performed easily with pencil and paper. One participant recently took the test and noted that they answered 36 questions, aiming for a mid-600s score, despite not having a physics degree and studying from an older textbook. They expressed concern that their score may not meet the requirements for admission to Georgia Tech, although they applied to other institutions that do not require the GRE physics test, only the general GRE. The discussion highlights the importance of preparation and the nature of the exam format, emphasizing that reliance on calculators is unnecessary.
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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