Built-in calculator feature for numeric values
Updated 12 May 2023
Mastering automatically calculates the numeric value of expressions, if appropriate, whether an answer uses a simple answer box or an answer box for mathematical expressions. The built-in calculator feature does not apply to the numeric value with units answer box.
When using the calculator feature
- Your final answer will not be rounded. Typically, the feedback box shows your answer as well as Mastering's officially correct answer. Occasionally your answer may be outside of the allowed grading tolerance range.
- Arguments of trigonometric functions must be in radians, unless the question instructs you to enter your answer in degrees.
- The calculator applies the standard order of operations when calculating your answer.
To find twice the expression (a+b), you must enter either 2*(a+b) or (a+b)*2. The expression a+b*2 is interpreted as a+(b*2).
If you choose NOT to use the built-in calculator
Simply enter the correctly calculated numeric value directly.