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Exam PExam FM
Calculator Shortcuts Cheat Sheet (TI-30XS and BA II Plus)
Time-saving calculator techniques for actuarial exams.
TI-30XS MultiView
- Factorial: Type n, then PRB, select n!
- Combinations: Type n, PRB, nCr, type r
- Permutations: Type n, PRB, nPr, type r
- Powers: Use the caret (^) key for any exponent
- Natural log: Press LN key directly
- e^x: Press 2nd, then LN
- Store values: STO followed by variable letter (X, Y, Z, A, B, C)
- Recall values: RCL followed by variable letter
- Table function: Enter formula, press TABLE to see values at multiple points
- Toggle exact/decimal: Press the fraction/decimal toggle key
BA II Plus
- TVM calculations: N, I/Y, PV, PMT, FV (enter known values, compute unknown)
- Clear TVM: 2nd CLR TVM before each new problem
- Payment timing: 2nd BGN to toggle between END and BGN mode
- Amortization: 2nd AMORT, set P1 and P2, scroll for BAL, PRN, INT
- Cash flow: CF, enter CF0, then C01, F01, C02, F02, etc.
- NPV: After entering cash flows, press NPV, enter I, CPT
- IRR: After entering cash flows, press IRR, CPT
- Bond worksheet: 2nd BOND for settlement date, coupon, redemption, yield
- Set decimal places: 2nd FORMAT, enter desired decimals
- Chain calculations: Use ANS key to reference last computed result
Time-Saving Tips
- Store intermediate results in memory variables to avoid re-entry
- Use the annuity formula on BA II Plus rather than computing individual cash flows
- For Exam P: use TI-30XS for combinations, factorials, and probability calculations
- For Exam FM: use BA II Plus for TVM, amortization, and bond calculations
- Practice with your exam calculator daily so it becomes automatic
Put these formulas to work
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