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How to Put Fractions in A Ti-84 Calculator

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Entering fractions on your TI-84 calculator is straightforward once you know the correct method. This guide will walk you through the process of entering both simple fractions and mixed numbers, performing operations with fractions, simplifying them, and converting them to decimals.

Entering Basic Fractions

To enter a basic fraction like 3/4 on your TI-84 calculator:

  1. Press the MATH key and select option 1: Frac (this puts the calculator in fraction mode).
  2. Enter the numerator (3) by pressing the appropriate number keys.
  3. Press the / key (the division symbol).
  4. Enter the denominator (4) by pressing the appropriate number keys.
  5. The fraction will appear on the screen.

Remember that the TI-84 can only display fractions with denominators up to 9999. If you enter a fraction with a larger denominator, it will automatically convert to a decimal.

Entering Mixed Numbers

Mixed numbers (like 2 1/2) require a slightly different approach:

  1. Press the MATH key and select option 1: Frac.
  2. Enter the whole number part (2) by pressing the appropriate number keys.
  3. Press the MATH key again and select option 2: Frac (this enters the fraction bar).
  4. Enter the numerator (1) by pressing the appropriate number keys.
  5. Press the / key.
  6. Enter the denominator (2) by pressing the appropriate number keys.

The mixed number will display as 2 1/2. To perform calculations with mixed numbers, you may need to convert them to improper fractions first.

Performing Operations with Fractions

Once you've entered your fractions, you can perform operations:

  • Addition: Press the + key
  • Subtraction: Press the - key
  • Multiplication: Press the × key
  • Division: Press the ÷ key

After performing an operation, the result will appear in fraction form if possible, or as a decimal if the fraction is too complex.

Simplifying Fractions

To simplify a fraction on your TI-84:

  1. Enter the fraction as described above.
  2. Press the MATH key and select option 5: Frac (this simplifies the fraction).

The calculator will reduce the fraction to its simplest form.

Converting Fractions to Decimals

To convert a fraction to a decimal:

  1. Enter the fraction as described above.
  2. Press the MATH key and select option 4: Dec (this converts the fraction to a decimal).

The decimal equivalent will appear on the screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enter fractions with variables on my TI-84?

No, the TI-84 calculator does not support entering fractions with variables. It's designed for numerical calculations only.

What if my fraction has a denominator larger than 9999?

The TI-84 will automatically convert fractions with denominators larger than 9999 to decimal form.

How do I clear a fraction entry?

Press the CLEAR key to remove the current entry. If you've already performed calculations, press 2nd then CLEAR to clear all.

Can I store fractions in memory?

Yes, you can store fractions in memory locations. Use the STO key after entering the fraction to save it.