How to Work a Financial Calculator
Identify the proper function keys on the calculator., Input programs into the calculator., Determine the financial calculation you want to perform., Consult the calculator's user guide for instructions on specific calculations., Input data properly.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Identify the proper function keys on the calculator.
You will often need to execute advanced applications on hand-held financial calculators using the 2 shift keys.
F shift key:
This activates the gold alternate functions that appear over the standard-function keys.
Some of the important f keys include AMORT (amortization) and NPV (net present value).
G shift key:
This key activate the blue alternate function keys that appear slanted on the standard keys.
Some of the important g keys are 12x, which you use to adjust an annual interest rate, and END, which you would use for payments set to end at a specific period. -
Step 2: Input programs into the calculator.
If you use certain formulas often, you can store them in the calculator by selecting the f shift key and then pressing P/R.
Most hand-held calculators will allow you to save several programs. , Top hand-held financial calculators can perform basic mathematical equations or complex financial computations, like partial-year depreciation and full investment analysis.
For example, to find the percentage your stock lost when it fell from $61.25 per share to $57.50, you would in follow these steps:
Type in
61.25 and hit ENTER.
ENTER separates the base number from the second number.
Type in
57.5.
Press the percentage key.
The calculation renders a
6.122 percent loss. , For example, the basic keystrokes you would use to calculate simple interest on a $500 loan for 120 days with a 5 percent interest rate are:
Type in 120n, where n stores the value for the term of the loan.
Type in 5i, where i stores the value for the interest rate, which in this example is 5 percent.
Enter 500 CHS PV, which stores the principle.
Press f INT to calculate the accrued interest.
In this example, it is $8.33.
Press + to calculate the total amount owed (principle plus accrued interest).
The total is $508.33. , Regardless of the complexity of the equation, you must enter data in the correct sequence to render accurate results.
Be aware that calculator set-ups can vary slightly from 1 model to the next. -
Step 3: Determine the financial calculation you want to perform.
-
Step 4: Consult the calculator's user guide for instructions on specific calculations.
-
Step 5: Input data properly.
Detailed Guide
You will often need to execute advanced applications on hand-held financial calculators using the 2 shift keys.
F shift key:
This activates the gold alternate functions that appear over the standard-function keys.
Some of the important f keys include AMORT (amortization) and NPV (net present value).
G shift key:
This key activate the blue alternate function keys that appear slanted on the standard keys.
Some of the important g keys are 12x, which you use to adjust an annual interest rate, and END, which you would use for payments set to end at a specific period.
If you use certain formulas often, you can store them in the calculator by selecting the f shift key and then pressing P/R.
Most hand-held calculators will allow you to save several programs. , Top hand-held financial calculators can perform basic mathematical equations or complex financial computations, like partial-year depreciation and full investment analysis.
For example, to find the percentage your stock lost when it fell from $61.25 per share to $57.50, you would in follow these steps:
Type in
61.25 and hit ENTER.
ENTER separates the base number from the second number.
Type in
57.5.
Press the percentage key.
The calculation renders a
6.122 percent loss. , For example, the basic keystrokes you would use to calculate simple interest on a $500 loan for 120 days with a 5 percent interest rate are:
Type in 120n, where n stores the value for the term of the loan.
Type in 5i, where i stores the value for the interest rate, which in this example is 5 percent.
Enter 500 CHS PV, which stores the principle.
Press f INT to calculate the accrued interest.
In this example, it is $8.33.
Press + to calculate the total amount owed (principle plus accrued interest).
The total is $508.33. , Regardless of the complexity of the equation, you must enter data in the correct sequence to render accurate results.
Be aware that calculator set-ups can vary slightly from 1 model to the next.
About the Author
Rachel Reynolds
A passionate writer with expertise in practical skills topics. Loves sharing practical knowledge.
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