Can we use calculator in CAT Exam 2026? CAT examination Guidelines & policy

Overview: One question constantly on your mind while preparing for the CAT is, "Can we use a calculator in the CAT exam?" This blog will answer this question. Having the proper understanding of the basic rules and instructions while appearing for CAT 2026 becomes imperative.

• If you're planning to take the CAT (Common Admission Test) and get an MBA from a prestigious college, you might wonder, "Is calculator allowed in CAT exam 2026?"
• The CAT entrance exam is well-known for its rigorous nature and for assessing a candidate's problem-solving abilities.

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Important Events of CAT 2026 Exam!

• The CAT 2026 exam will be conducted on 29th November by IIM Kozhikode. The online CAT registration will begin on 01st Aug 2026.
• It is essential to note that the last date to apply for the CAT 2026 entrance exam was September 20, 2026.
• The CAT 2026 admit card will be available for download from November 12, 2026, to November 30, 2026.

In this blog, we will offer a comprehensive explanation to address the question Can we use a calculator in the CAT exam? — along with insights on how to efficiently prepare for the Quantitative Ability section without depending heavily on calculation devices.

Can We Use Calculator in CAT Exam 2026?

Let's explore the right answer! CAT allows the use of a basic on-screen calculator only. You are not allowed to take a physical calculator inside the centre.

This policy is based on the premise that the CAT assesses one's ability to solve complex mathematical problems and perform rapid mental calculations.

The exam committee aims to assess your numeric aptitude, logical reasoning, and analytical skills without using physical calculators. 

CAT 2026 is set to be conducted on November 30. Get the hold of all the CAT previous year's question paper and give a fuel to your preparation!

Check: CAT Exam Paper Analysis

Where to Find Your On-Screen Calculator in the CAT 2026 Exam?

Can we use a calculator in the CAT exam? When you take the CAT exam, the calculator is a small icon. You will find it on the screen, usually above the "Time Left" display. This icon becomes your tool for certain problems. You should learn how to use it now, not just on exam day.

The calculator looks like a standard one. You click values to enter them. For example, to type "999," you click the '9' button four times. It has basic functions like plus, minus, multiply, divide, percent, reciprocal, and square root. You can also save numbers using memory functions (M+ and M-).

Read More: What is Negative Marking in CAT Exam 2026?

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When to Use the On-Screen Calculator During the CAT Exam 2026?

The on-screen calculator is not for every problem. You can use it for specific questions. Here are times when it can truly help:

1. Handling Large Numbers

When you face large multiplications, using the calculator can save time and prevent errors. Trying to multiply big numbers by hand in a stressful exam can be risky. Quickly type them into the calculator instead.

2. During Final Step Checks

Sometimes, you do most of a calculation on paper. For the very last step, if it's complex, use the calculator. This is for quick verification or the final part of a problem. Avoid using it for long chain calculations unless you know how to manage it.

Read More: CAT Exam 2026 Short Tricks to Follow

3. While Comparing Options

The calculator helps with option elimination. You might need a rough idea if one number is greater than or less than another. Use the calculator for a fast check rather than manual estimation.

4. To Do Precise Calculations

For percentage checks or finding the square root of numbers that are not perfect squares, the calculator is very useful. For example, if you need the square root of 87, the calculator provides the exact value quickly. This prevents you from getting stuck on a small part of a larger problem.

5. Dealing with Similar Answers

In problems where options are very close, like 92.43, 92.45, or 92.57, the calculator is key. You might get close with mental math. But for the exact decimal value, use the calculator. This avoids long division by hand.

What is the 80-20 Rule for On-Screen Calculator Use in CAT Exam?

A smart way to think about the calculator is the 80-20 rule. This means:

• 80% of your calculations should rely on mental math or pen and paper.
• 20% of your calculations might need the on-screen calculator.

This rule pushes you to improve your core math skills. It also teaches you when to reach for the digital tool. For instance, out of 10 questions, you might use the calculator for two. Knowing which two questions makes all the difference.

Relying on Mental Math

Focus on building strong mental math skills. This includes:

• Understanding fractions and ratios.
• Knowing divisibility rules.
• Using properties of odd and even numbers.
• Eliminating options based on unit digits or cyclicity.

These skills help you solve many problems faster than typing into a calculator. For example, to find 27.5% of 320:

• 25% of 320 is 1/4th, which is 80.
• 2.5% of 320 is 1/10th of 25%, which is 8.
• Adding them (80 + 8) gives 88.

Doing this mentally is much faster than 10 clicks on the calculator.

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What are the Smart Strategies for On-Screen Calculator Use in CAT Exam?

Using the calculator effectively means more than just knowing when to open it. It means using it smartly to save time and avoid mistakes.

1. Manage Chain Calculations with Care

When you have a long series of calculations, like 125 + 240 / 5, you must understand the BODMAS rule. The calculator performs operations in the order you enter them, or according to BODMAS. A common mistake is not hitting the "equals" sign at the right time.

To avoid errors:

• Use the "equals" sign often. If you finish one part of a calculation, press "=" to get that result. Then, continue with the next operation. This ensures the correct order of operations.
• Keep BODMAS in mind. Your brain must stay active, even with the calculator. Make sure it divides before adding, for example.

2. Use Memory Functions

For multi-step problems, the memory functions (M+ and M-) are your friends. If you calculate an interest amount and then need to add it to a principal, save the interest in memory. Then, recall it and add it to the principal. This avoids writing down and re-typing numbers.

3. Take Advantage of Specific Functions

• Square Root: Directly use the square root symbol for non-perfect squares.
• Percentage Symbol: Use the "%" key. For example, to add 15% to 200, type "200 + 15 %". The calculator directly gives you 230. This is helpful when you are under pressure and want to avoid silly mistakes.

Practice Makes Perfect: Integrate Calculator Use into Your Routine

You cannot become good at using the CAT calculator overnight. It takes practice.

1. Practice During Mocks, Not Home Study

When you are practising at home, try to solve problems without a calculator. This builds your mental math strength.

But when you take mock tests, actively use the on-screen calculator. During this time, use the on-screen calculator and analyse its features to boost your speed.

This helps you get used to clicking buttons with a mouse. It's very different from a handheld or phone calculator.

2. Dedicate 10 Minutes Daily

Set aside 10 minutes every day to practice calculator use. This helps you:

• Learn where all the buttons are.
• Get familiar with the BODMAS rules for the on-screen tool.
• Improve your speed and accuracy with clicking.

This small routine builds "muscle memory" for the calculator. You won't waste time searching for buttons on exam day.

3. Verify Calculations

After you finish a mock test, go back and use the calculator to verify your answers. This helps you see where you might have made calculation errors. You can become a "pro" at calculator use by treating this as a game.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using an On-Screen Calculator in the CAT Exam

Even with a calculator, mistakes can happen. Be aware of these common pitfalls:

1. Over-Reliance on the Calculator

The biggest mistake is thinking the calculator will do all the work. It's a tool, not a replacement for your brain. Remember the 80-20 rule. If you overuse it, you might lose valuable time. For small calculations, mental math is almost always faster than clicking.

2. Mouse Issues

Exam centers have different computer systems. Sometimes, the mouse click may not register correctly. You might press "3" but "5" appears. If you rely too much on the calculator, this can cause errors.

Your mental math skills help you check if the answer is in the correct range, even if there's a click error.

3. Over-Verification

If you are confident in your mental math, don't re-check every answer with the calculator. This is over-verification and wastes time.

It is best to practice more and more to trust your calculations. If you're going to check with the calculator, you might as well have solved it with the calculator in the first place.

4. Memory Errors

If you use the memory functions, remember to clear the memory for new problems. Forgetting to clear it can lead to previous results mixing with new calculations. 

Pro Tips for Accuracy

When using the calculator, still use your math basics to double-check.

• Check the last digit: Does the last digit of your calculator result match what you expect?
• Odd/Even properties: Use odd/even rules to quickly see if an answer makes sense.
• Range checking: If you know 19 squared is 361 and 20 squared is 400, then the square root of 387 must be between 19 and 20. Use options to narrow it down.
• Unit-digit analysis: For multiplication, the unit digit can often quickly rule out options.

These small checks, learned from Number System properties, ensure your calculator use is accurate.

How to Improve Calculation Skills For CAT Exam 2026?

Here are some tips that can help you improve your calculation speed and accuracy for the CAT exam:

1. Implications for Candidates 

Being unable to use a physical calculator during the CAT exam can be stressful for a CAT candidate at first. However, it is necessary to acknowledge the benefits of this strategy.

• For starters, the time limit forces you to improve your mental maths skills, which can be beneficial in real-world business situations when quick calculations are essential.
• Second, it levels the playing field for all candidates, assuring fairness by removing any advantage that physical calculator use may bring to some. 

Check | CAT Syllabus 2026

2. Developing Mental Math Skills 

The CAT exam assesses your ability to analyse and answer numerical problems quickly. You're forced to improve your mental maths skills without the help of a physical calculator. 

• Regularly perform mental calculations, beginning with fundamental arithmetic and progressing to more complex processes.
• Remember that repetition fosters perfection, and consistent effort will enhance speed and accuracy. 

Read More | CAT Maths Syllabus

3. Adopting Effective Problem-Solving Strategies 

Now that we have answered the question, "Can we use a calculator in the CAT exam?" You must know that without a physical calculator, adopting effective problem-solving skills becomes essential.

Approximation, estimation, and breaking down large problems into simpler components are all valuable strategies.

These strategies save time and enable you to approach challenging questions thoughtfully. 

Also Check | CAT Exam Preparation Books

4. Mock tests and Time Management 

• Mock exams are essential for passing the CAT entrance exam.
• Regularly take mock tests under simulated exam conditions to get used to the calculator-free atmosphere.
• Focus on time management to ensure you finish the exam on time.
• Practice allocating adequate time to different sections and questions, refining your ability to prioritise and optimise your performance. 

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Conclusion

Can we use calculator in CAT exam? While not using a physical calculator in the CAT exam may seem daunting, it ultimately attempts to assess your aptitude and problem-solving ability fairly and completely (and remember, the basic on-screen calculator can still be used on the computer).

Also Read: SuperGrads CAT Toppers List

You can overcome this challenge by developing mental math skills, applying effective problem-solving strategies, and practising in real-life situations. Remember that the CAT exam tests your determination, adaptability, willpower, and knowledge. Accept the challenge, keep focused, and do your best. Best of luck! 

Read More | Why is CAT Exam important?