Is math at USMMA no calculator, calculator allowed, or a mix of both?

acpacesetter

acpacesetter

Member
Joined
May 1, 2021
Messages
48
I am working through the practice problems assigned for math prep for the incoming class of 2026, and so far they seem rather trivial if you are allowed to use a calculator. As a result, I was wondering what the format of the classes would be when it came to calculators being used, and if it would be more beneficial to practice without one.
 
If you can do calculus without a calculator then you are a genius. LOL. You will need a calculator!!!!!!
 
A lot of the math classes are no calculator. The ones that allow calculator is a simple TI X model with no graphing or algebra system.
 
You should review the content called Logging In that can be found at 2026 Logging In. Typically that is mailed to entering candidates and explains what is needed, and more importantly what not to bring on the day you report. As to your question, page 11 states "A graphics calculator (e.g. Texas Instruments TI-89) is recommended, but optional. This may be purchased before reporting for Indoctrination or at the USMMA Navy Exchange (NEX)." Having said that, on page 12 under items that plebes should have, it states a TI-36X Pro at $24.95. Given the contradiction, I'd go with the TI-89 although it costs about five to six times the TI-36. Then too, the TI-36 will probably get you through NDOC adequately and then, if you are engine, go to the TI-89.

I'm class of 1965; in my day we used slide rules and gray matter. Sometimes I think that worked better than what students have today!
 
Last edited:
zbsigpi said:
If you can do calculus without a calculator then you are a genius. LOL. You will need a calculator!!!!!!
Click to expand...
I mean there are specific types of calc problems that do not require a calculator like evaluating limits, certain integrals, MVT, and related rates, so I was just trying to see what I need to brush up on. Definitely not a genius lol.
 
Our issued calculator was blue. We called it the blue brain. Need I say more?
 
John from PA said:
Did you miss this…"A graphics calculator (e.g. Texas Instruments TI-89) is recommended.”
Click to expand...
I already have one, however some classes at my high school only allowed 4 function calcs since ti 89 has formula manipulation on top of the graphing capabilities among a slew of other things the ti 84 has. As such, I was wondering if it was better to just bring both. Just wanted to clarify.
 
Last edited:
acpacesetter said:
I already have one, however some classes at my high school only allowed 4 function calcs since ti 89 has formula manipulation on top of the graphing capabilities among a slew of other things the ti 84 has. As such, I was wondering if it was better to just bring both. Just wanted to clarify.
Click to expand...
IMO, I think I’d bring only the TI-89, the one that is recommended. After INDOC, perhaps Thanksgiving or holiday leave, then bring the other If you feel it necessary. You will learn soon enough that less is better but be adequately prepared.
 
KPEngineer said:
Our issued calculator was blue. We called it the blue brain. Need I say more?
Click to expand...
Still have my blue brain in the desk drawer. It is still stenciled with last name, year, and company. I still use it on rare occasions. Definitely got my money out of that part of the plebe bundle.
 
acpacesetter said:
I am working through the practice problems assigned for math prep for the incoming class of 2026, and so far they seem rather trivial if you are allowed to use a calculator. As a result, I was wondering what the format of the classes would be when it came to calculators being used, and if it would be more beneficial to practice without one.
Click to expand...
Current MIDN here,
The Ti-30xs that comes in your plebe bundle should be all you need. People (including myself) buy the TI-89 and it’s nothing but a paperweight. All math/science classes require that the Ti-30XS is the only calculator that can be used. Some take this a step further and allow no calculators at all. The majority of my calculus classes (and differential equations) have not allowed calculators at all.
 
John from PA said:
You should review the content called Logging In that can be found at 2026 Logging In. Typically that is mailed to entering candidates and explains what is needed, and more importantly what not to bring on the day you report. As to your question, page 11 states "A graphics calculator (e.g. Texas Instruments TI-89) is recommended, but optional. This may be purchased before reporting for Indoctrination or at the USMMA Navy Exchange (NEX)." Having said that, on page 12 under items that plebes should have, it states a TI-36X Pro at $24.95. Given the contradiction, I'd go with the TI-89 although it costs about five to six times the TI-36. Then too, the TI-36 will probably get you through NDOC adequately and then, if you are engine, go to the TI-89.

I'm class of 1965; in my day we used slide rules and gray matter. Sometimes I think that worked better than what students have today!
Click to expand...

This is terrible advice. Is there a single class that allows an 89 at KP? Definitely not in deck, and I doubt there are any in engine either. TI-36 is what you need.
 
KP Eng said:
Still have my blue brain in the desk drawer. It is still stenciled with last name, year, and company. I still use it on rare occasions. Definitely got my money out of that part of the plebe bundle.
Click to expand...
Issued calculators? I brought a TI-30 to KP. Used a 9 volt battery. I remember when the battery died during a thermo final. CRAP!!!!! Talk about burning some pencil lead. . . after that I always came to a test with a spare battery. . .
 
KP2024 said:
Current MIDN here,
The Ti-30xs that comes in your plebe bundle should be all you need. People (including myself) buy the TI-89 and it’s nothing but a paperweight. All math/science classes require that the Ti-30XS is the only calculator that can be used. Some take this a step further and allow no calculators at all. The majority of my calculus classes (and differential equations) have not allowed calculators at all.
Click to expand...
@acpacesetter I think you have your answer right here. My son is also a 2024 and confirmed this. You should have a TI-36X Pro in your plebe bundle according to the logging in book. Just use that and then after indoc is over and classes start and you find out what is specifically allowed, then buy or have your parents send you a graphing calculator if you think you need it. Just my two cents......
 
acpacesetter said:
I am working through the practice problems assigned for math prep for the incoming class of 2026, and so far they seem rather trivial if you are allowed to use a calculator. As a result, I was wondering what the format of the classes would be when it came to calculators being used, and if it would be more beneficial to practice without one.
Click to expand...
Mind if I ask when you received the practice problems?
I am curious as I have not received the math prep problems for the incoming class of 2026...
 
cmakin said:
Issued calculators? I brought a TI-30 to KP. Used a 9 volt battery. I remember when the battery died during a thermo final. CRAP!!!!! Talk about burning some pencil lead. . . after that I always came to a test with a spare battery. . .
Click to expand...
Here's what I was issued.. No batteries required.

314282020522_5382828539_5027671061831609291_n.jpg

Halfway through my 2nd class year I saved up enough to go buy an HP-35 RPN calculator.. I remember it being a real lifesaver in my Spherical Trig class.. It made everything easy as 3.1415926.. 😉

HP-35.jpeg
 
HelloThere@0604 said:
Mind if I ask when you received the practice problems?
I am curious as I have not received the math prep problems for the incoming class of 2026...
Click to expand...
Got them about 2 days make sure you check ur spam. Was titled "Pre-Indoctrination Math Review" If you cant find it still dm me your email and I can forward you the email.
 
KP2024 said:
Current MIDN here,
The Ti-30xs that comes in your plebe bundle should be all you need. People (including myself) buy the TI-89 and it’s nothing but a paperweight. All math/science classes require that the Ti-30XS is the only calculator that can be used. Some take this a step further and allow no calculators at all. The majority of my calculus classes (and differential equations) have not allowed calculators at all.
Click to expand...
Thank you very much for the clarification. Very reassuring because of all the calc classes I have taken were no calculator or 4 function only, so I definitely feel more confident and prepared. :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top