Texas instruments TI-NSPIRE CAS Computer Software

CAS Computer Software

Important Information

Except as otherwise expressly stated in the License that accompanies a program, Texas Instruments makes no warranty, either express or implied, including but not limited to any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, regarding any programs or book materials and makes such materials available solely on an "as-is" basis. In no event shall Texas Instruments be liable to anyone for special, collateral, incidental, or consequential damages in connection with or arising out of the purchase or use of these materials, and the sole and exclusive liability of Texas Instruments, regardless of the form of action, shall not exceed the amount set forth in the license for the program. Moreover, Texas Instruments shall not be liable for any claim of any kind whatsoever against the use of these materials by any other party.

License

Please see the complete license installed in C:\Program Files\TI Education\TI-Nspire CAS.
© 2007 Texas Instruments Incorporated
Microsoft®, Windows®, Excel®,Vernier EasyTemp®, Go!®Temp and Go!®Motion are trademarks of their respective owners.
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Contents
Important Information................................................................... ii
License......................................................................................ii
Introduction ............................................................................1
The TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software for math and science... 1
How to use this guidebook............................................................ 1
Getting Started .......................................................................3
The TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software Home Screen................ 3
Using menus ................................................................................... 4
Menu Options.......................................................................... 4
Using tool bars................................................................................ 8
Tool bar contents .................................................................... 8
The Page Sorter ............................................................................ 10
Using the Work Area.................................................................... 11
Multiple work areas on one page........................................ 11
Creating multiple work areas............................................... 12
Adding an application to a page ......................................... 12
Repositioning (swapping) applications on a page.............. 13
Deleting pages or applications............................................. 13
The TI-Nspire™ Keypad................................................................ 13
Using the TI-Nspire™ keypad............................................... 14
Language Settings........................................................................ 14
Changing the Language: ...................................................... 14
Document Settings....................................................................... 15
Customizing document settings........................................... 16
Applying document settings to the system......................... 17
Using the catalog ......................................................................... 17
Opening the catalog............................................................. 18
Entering special characters or templates.................................... 19
Changing the desktop view.........................................................20
TI-Nspire™ Handheld View................................................... 20
Presentation View................................................................. 21
Working with Documents.....................................................23
Creating a new document ........................................................... 23
Adding an application to a page ......................................... 24
Adding multiple applications to a page.............................. 25
Adding a problem to a document ....................................... 27
Adding a page to a problem................................................ 27
Using the Page Sorter ..................................................................28
Selecting pages in the Page Sorter ...................................... 28
iii
Rearranging pages in the Page Sorter .................................28
Saving documents.........................................................................29
Saving a document with a new name..................................29
Printing documents ......................................................................30
Using Print Preview ...............................................................31
Linking values on pages............................................................... 31
Creating TI-Nspire™ variables ..............................................32
Special considerations for variables ..................................... 34
Checking a variable’s value using the Calculator
application .......................................................................36
Using (linking) TI-Nspire™ variables .................................... 36
Removing a linked variable ..................................................39
Using Calculator ................................................................... 41
Getting started with the Calculator application......................... 41
Before you begin...................................................................47
Entering and evaluating math expressions.................................47
Options for entering expressions .........................................47
Entering simple math expressions........................................47
Controlling the form of a result...........................................48
Inserting items from the Catalog ......................................... 49
Using an expression template...............................................50
Creating matrices...................................................................51
Inserting a row or column into a matrix..............................52
Inserting expressions using a wizard....................................52
Creating a piecewise function..............................................54
Creating a system of equations ............................................54
Deferring evaluation.............................................................55
Working with variables................................................................ 55
Storing a value in a variable.................................................55
Alternative methods for storing a variable .........................56
Checking a variable’s value ...................................................56
Using a variable in a calculation...........................................56
Updating a variable...............................................................57
Types of variables ..................................................................57
Entering multiple statements on the entry line.................. 57
Rules for naming variables....................................................58
Reusing the last answer ........................................................59
Temporarily substituting a value for a variable...................60
Creating user-defined functions and programs..........................60
Defining a single-line function.............................................60
Defining a multiple-line function using templates .............60
Defining a multiple-line function manually ........................62
Defining a program...............................................................63
Recalling a function or program definition.........................64
iv
Editing Calculator expressions..................................................... 64
Positioning the cursor in an expression............................... 64
Inserting into an expression in the entry line ..................... 65
Selecting part of an expression............................................65
Deleting all or part of an expression on the entry line ......65
Financial calculations ................................................................... 65
Using the Finance Solver....................................................... 65
Finance functions included...................................................67
Working with the Calculator history........................................... 67
Viewing the Calculator history............................................. 67
Reusing a previous expression or result............................... 68
Deleting an expression from the history .............................69
Clearing the Calculator history............................................. 69
Using Graphs & Geometry ....................................................71
Getting started with Graphs & Geometry................................... 71
Getting acquainted with Graphs & Geometry .................... 72
The Tool menu.............................................................................. 72
Using the Context menu....................................................... 81
The work area............................................................................... 81
The graphing view ................................................................ 82
The plane geometry view..................................................... 82
The analytic window.............................................................83
To remove the analytic window from the work area......... 84
Creating and manipulating axes.......................................... 87
Moving about the work area ............................................... 89
Turning the grid on or off ....................................................90
Attaching an object to the grid ........................................... 91
The Zoom feature .................................................................91
Checking page contents ....................................................... 94
The entry line................................................................................ 94
Additional Graphs & Geometry features .................................... 96
Keystroke shortcuts............................................................... 96
Using the tab and arrow keys .............................................. 96
Attribute settings.................................................................. 97
Changing the thickness and style of a line/outline............. 99
Locking measured values and points................................. 100
Working with functions............................................................. 101
Using the entry line............................................................. 101
Using the entry line expand button................................... 102
Using the Text tool to enter functions............................... 102
Graphing inequalities .........................................................104
Renaming f(x)...................................................................... 104
Editing functions................................................................. 105
Hiding a function on the work area .................................. 106
v
Deleting a function ............................................................. 107
Clearing the work area...............................................................107
The Trace tools ............................................................................ 107
Using Graph Trace ...............................................................108
Using Geometry Trace .........................................................109
Using Erase Geometry Trace ...............................................110
Manually manipulating functions .............................................111
Manipulating a linear function ..........................................112
Manipulating a quadratic function.................................... 112
Manipulating a sine or cosine function .............................113
Working with multiple objects at one time..............................114
Selecting multiple objects...................................................114
Deleting multiple selections ...............................................115
Moving multiple selections.................................................115
Drawing and working with points and lines ............................115
Points...........................................................................................116
Creating a point...................................................................116
Creating a point on a specific object..................................116
Defining an intersection point(s)........................................117
Labeling (identifying) a point.............................................117
Naming a point ...................................................................118
Redefining a point...............................................................119
Linear objects..............................................................................120
Creating a line .....................................................................120
Creating a ray ......................................................................120
Creating a line segment......................................................121
Creating a line segment with defined midpoint...............122
Creating a parallel line........................................................123
Creating a perpendicular line.............................................124
Creating a vector .................................................................125
Moving a vector...................................................................126
Resizing a vector..................................................................126
Creating a tangent ..............................................................126
Creating and working with objects (shapes) ............................ 127
Creating a circle...................................................................127
Moving a circle.....................................................................128
Resizing a circle....................................................................128
Creating a triangle .............................................................. 131
Moving a triangle................................................................131
Reshaping a triangle ...........................................................132
Creating a rectangle............................................................132
Creating a polygon..............................................................133
Moving a polygon ...............................................................134
Reshaping a polygon...........................................................134
Creating a regular polygon.................................................135
Transferring Measurements .......................................................136
vi
Transferring a measurement .............................................. 136
Transferring a numerical text entry to an axis ..................137
Transferring a measurement onto a circle......................... 138
Measuring graphs and objects .................................................. 139
Identifying equations for circles and lines......................... 139
Measuring length................................................................ 140
Finding the area of a circular disc, polygon,
rectangle or triangle ..................................................... 142
Finding the perimeter of a circular disc, polygon,
rectangle or triangle ..................................................... 142
Finding the measure of an angle....................................... 143
Defining an angle with three points ................................. 143
Repositioning a measured value........................................ 144
Finding the slope of a line, ray, segment or vector........... 144
Adding text to the work area ............................................ 145
Moving text .........................................................................146
Using the Calculate tool ..................................................... 146
Exploring functions, graphs, and objects.................................. 147
Finding points of interest: zeroes, minima, maxima......... 148
Finding the definite integral of a function ....................... 149
Finding the derivative of a function at a point
(the slope)...................................................................... 150
Transformations.......................................................................... 151
Exploring symmetry ............................................................ 151
Exploring reflection ............................................................ 152
Exploring translation .......................................................... 153
Exploring rotation............................................................... 154
Exploring dilation................................................................ 155
Other investigations................................................................... 157
Bisecting a segment defined on a line............................... 157
Bisecting a segment ............................................................ 158
Bisecting an implied segment ............................................ 159
Bisecting an angle............................................................... 160
Bisecting an implied angle ................................................. 161
Creating a locus................................................................... 162
Animating objects ...................................................................... 164
Animating one point on an object .................................... 164
The animation control panel.............................................. 165
Changing the animation of a point in motion.................. 166
Pausing and resuming animation ...................................... 166
Resetting animation............................................................ 166
Stopping animation ............................................................ 166
Plotting collected data............................................................... 167
Creating a scatter plot ........................................................ 167
vii
Using Lists & Spreadsheet.................................................. 171
Getting started with tables........................................................171
Before you begin.................................................................175
Navigating in a spreadsheet ...............................................175
Inserting a cell range into a formula.................................. 176
Methods of entering data...................................................178
Entering a math expression, text, or spreadsheet
formula...........................................................................179
Working with individual cells ....................................................180
Creating absolute and relative cell references .................. 180
Inserting items from the Catalog .......................................181
Deleting the contents of a cell or block of cells................182
Copying a cell or block of cells ...........................................183
Filling adjacent cells ............................................................184
Sharing a cell value as a variable........................................185
Linking a cell to a variable..................................................185
Preventing name conflicts...................................................186
Working with rows and columns of data..................................187
Selecting a row or column ..................................................187
Resizing a row or column....................................................187
Inserting an empty row or column.....................................188
Deleting entire rows or columns ........................................188
Copying rows or columns.................................................... 189
Moving a column.................................................................190
Sorting data ................................................................................191
Sorting a range of cells in a column...................................191
Sorting a rectangular region ..............................................192
Sorting entire columns........................................................193
Generating columns of data ......................................................194
Creating column values based on another column...........195
Generating a list of random numbers................................196
Generating a numerical sequence......................................196
Creating and sharing spreadsheet data as lists.........................198
Sharing a spreadsheet column as a list variable................ 198
Linking to an existing list variable......................................201
Inserting an element in a list..............................................201
Deleting an element from a list..........................................201
Graphing spreadsheet data........................................................202
Capturing data from Graphs & Geometry................................. 204
Capturing data manually....................................................204
Capturing data automatically............................................. 206
Creating function tables.............................................................207
Showing and Hiding function tables..................................208
Generating a function table ...............................................209
Adding a function table from Graphs & Geometry...........210
viii
Viewing values in a function table .................................... 210
Editing a function ............................................................... 211
Changing the settings for a function table....................... 211
Deleting a column in the function table ........................... 212
Using table data for statistical analysis..................................... 212
Plotting statistical data....................................................... 212
Statistical calculations ................................................................ 214
Performing a statistical calculation.................................... 214
Supported Statistical Calculations...................................... 216
Distributions ...............................................................................220
Calculating distributions.....................................................221
Supported Distribution functions ...................................... 223
Confidence Intervals................................................................... 229
Supported Confidence Intervals......................................... 229
Stat tests...................................................................................... 232
Supported Statistical tests .................................................. 232
Statistics Input Descriptions....................................................... 238
Exchanging data with other computer software..................... 239
Example - copying data from TI DataEditor...................... 240
Example - copying cells from an Excel® spreadsheet ....... 241
Using Data & Statistics .......................................................245
The Tool menu............................................................................ 246
Getting started with Data & Statistics....................................... 251
Creating plots from spreadsheet data ...................................... 251
Plotting data from Lists & Spreadsheet .............................251
Creating a split page with Data & Statistics and
Lists & Spreadsheet........................................................ 254
Plotting the contents of linked variables..................................254
Plot types .................................................................................... 257
Dot plots ..................................................................................... 257
Creating a dot plot.............................................................. 258
Box plots ..................................................................................... 259
Creating a boxplot .............................................................. 259
To change the boxplot from modified to standard.......... 261
Extending Box Plot Whiskers.............................................. 261
Showing Box Plot Outliers.................................................. 263
Histograms.................................................................................. 264
Creating a histogram .......................................................... 264
Adjusting the bins interactively ......................................... 265
Adjusting bins numerically ................................................. 266
To change the scale:............................................................ 269
Plotting a value ................................................................... 269
Removing a plotted value .................................................. 271
Normal probability plots............................................................271
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Creating a normal probability plot .................................... 271
Scatter Plots................................................................................. 271
From the Lists & Spreadsheet work area:........................... 272
From the Data & Statistics work area:................................272
X-Y line plots...............................................................................274
Multiple Plots..............................................................................274
Exploring data.............................................................................275
Moving points or bins of data............................................276
Selecting multiple points ....................................................278
Selecting a range of points.................................................280
Changing plot type..............................................................282
Rescaling a graph ................................................................283
Adding a movable line........................................................286
Rotating a movable line...................................................... 287
Showing regression lines.....................................................289
Showing residual squares....................................................291
Using Window/Zoom tools.........................................................292
Graphing Functions ....................................................................294
Graphing multiple functions using the
Plot Function tool ..........................................................294
Entering functions from other applications ...................... 295
Editing a functions ..............................................................298
Using Data & Statistics functions in other applications ....298
Supported function types ...................................................298
Using Show Normal PDF......................................................299
Using Shade Under Function ..............................................300
Using Statistical Tools .................................................................302
Using Notes......................................................................... 303
Getting started with the Notes application..............................303
The Notes tool menu..................................................................304
Before you begin.................................................................305
The Notes work area .................................................................. 305
Notes templates..........................................................................305
Applying a Notes template.................................................306
Using the Q&A Template ....................................................306
Using the Proof Template ...................................................306
Inserting comments ....................................................................307
Formatting Notes text ................................................................308
Selecting text ....................................................................... 308
Applying a text format........................................................308
Inserting geometric shape symbols....................................308
Entering and evaluating expressions.........................................309
Entering an expression........................................................ 309
Evaluating an expression ....................................................309
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Working with TI-Nspire™ libraries.....................................311
What is a library?........................................................................ 311
Creating libraries and library objects........................................ 312
Private and Public library objects .............................................. 312
Using short and long names............................................... 313
Using library objects................................................................... 313
Using a public library object............................................... 314
Using a private library object ............................................. 314
Included libraries........................................................................ 314
Programming ......................................................................315
Overview of the Program Editor ............................................... 315
The Program Editor menu ......................................................... 316
Defining a program or function................................................319
Starting a new Program Editor .......................................... 319
Entering lines into a function or program ........................ 320
Inserting comments............................................................. 321
Checking syntax................................................................... 322
Storing the function or program ....................................... 322
Viewing an existing program or function................................. 322
Opening an existing function or program................................ 323
Importing a program from a library ......................................... 324
Creating a copy of a function or program................................ 324
Renaming a program or function ............................................. 325
Changing the library access level .............................................. 325
Finding text................................................................................. 326
Closing the current function or program ................................. 326
Running programs and evaluating functions........................... 326
Using short and long names............................................... 326
Using a Public library function or program ....................... 327
Using a Private library function or program ..................... 327
Running a non-library program or function ..................... 328
Getting values into a program .................................................. 328
Example of passing values to a program........................... 329
Displaying information .............................................................. 330
Using local variables................................................................... 330
Example of a local variable................................................. 330
What causes an undefined variable error message? ........ 331
You must initialize local variables...................................... 331
Performing symbolic calculations....................................... 332
Differences between functions and programs......................... 332
Calling one program from another........................................... 332
Calling a separate program................................................333
Defining and calling an internal subroutine ..................... 333
Notes about using subroutines .......................................... 334
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Avoiding circular-definition errors ..................................... 334
Controlling the flow of a function or program........................334
Using If, Lbl, and Goto to control program flow......................335
If Command .........................................................................335
If...Then...EndIf structures...................................................335
If...Then...Else... EndIf structures.........................................336
If...Then...ElseIf... EndIf structures......................................336
Lbl and Goto commands .....................................................336
Using loops to repeat a group of commands ...........................337
For...EndFor loops ................................................................ 337
While...EndWhile loops.......................................................338
Loop...EndLoop loops..........................................................340
Repeating a loop immediately ...........................................341
Lbl and Goto loops ..............................................................341
Changing mode settings ............................................................ 341
Setting a mode ....................................................................341
Debugging programs and handling errors ...............................341
Techniques for debugging..................................................342
Error-handling commands ..................................................342
Data Collection ................................................................... 343
Compatible sensors.....................................................................343
Experimental data ......................................................................343
Starting the Data Collection tool...............................................344
Automatic start mode .........................................................344
Manually starting the Data Collection tool.......................345
Data Collection controls.............................................................346
Running an experiment and collecting data ............................347
Data Collection names................................................................349
Storing collected data ................................................................349
To save temperature data ...................................................349
To save motion data ............................................................349
Retrieving stored experimental results .....................................352
Troubleshooting the Data Collection tool ................................352
Appendix: Service and Support......................................... 355
Texas Instruments Support and Service..................................... 355
For general information......................................................355
Service and warranty information......................................355
Index ................................................................................... 357
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Introduction

The TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software for math and science

This guidebook provides information about powerful, advanced software from Texas Instruments: the TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software for math and science.

How to use this guidebook

This guidebook is intended to provide instruction for the basic operation of the TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software for math and science.
The chapters in this guidebook include: Getting Started - Provides start up information and offers students and
educators an overview of the basic operations of the TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software.
Working with Documents - Provides instruction for creating and working with documents.
Using Calculator- Provides an overview of the Calculator application. Using Graphs & Geometry - Provides an overview of the Graphs &
Geometry application. Using Lists & Spreadsheet- Provides an overview of the Lists &
Spreadsheet application. Using Data & Statistics - Provides instruction for using the Data &
Statistics application to analyze data created in other applications.
Using Notes- Provides an overview of the Notes application. Data Collection - Provides an overview of the Data Collection tool. Using Libraries - Provides instruction for creating and using Libraries. Using Program Editor- Provides instruction for creating and modifying
Programs using the Program Editor. Service and Warranty Information - Includes service and warranty
information and contact information for technical support.
Introduction 1
2 Introduction

Getting Started

The TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software Home Screen

The TI-Nspireé CAS computer software home screen provides all the tools you need to create documents and work with problems. The example below illustrates the home screen with its main parts labeled. Following the home screen, you can find detailed descriptions of each labeled part.
À Á
Â
Ã
À Menu bar - provides tools for working with documents and
modifying system settings.
Á Too l ba r - provides quick access to tools for working with
documents.
 Page Sorter - provides a thumbnail view of each page in the
document.
à Work area - displays a single page in a document.
Getting Started 3

Using menus

Menus provide the options you need to create and edit documents and problems. You can also use these menus to modify system settings.

Menu Options

The following table lists the options available under each menu, what the option does, and a shortcut key or alternate access method, if one exists. As you work with the TI-Nspireé CAS computer software, note that all menu options may not always be available, depending upon what you are doing.
Menu Name
File New
Menu Option Purpose
Document
Open Document
Close Closes the document and
Save Document
Save As Saves the current
Print Prints the current
Change Language
Creates a new document in the work area.
Displays a file browser window to let you select an existing document to open.
prompts you to save.
Saves the document currently in the work area.
document in a new folder and/or under a new name.
document.
Opens a dialog box that allows you to change the language settings.
Shortcut; Alternate
Ctrl + N; tool bar icon
Ctrl + O; tool bar icon
Ctrl + W
Ctrl + S; tool bar icon
Ctrl + P; tool bar icon
Document Settings
4 Getting Started
Opens a dialog box that allows you to modify the document settings and apply them to the entire system, if desired.
Menu Name
Menu Option Purpose
Shortcut; Alternate
Exit Closes all applications and
prompts to save the currently active document.
Edit Undo Removes your latest
action and displays the work area as it was before the action.
Redo Re-applies the latest
action that the Undo command removed.
Cut Removes a selected
portion of information from the work area.
Copy Makes a copy of a
selected portion of the information in the work area.
Paste Inserts information, either
cut or copied, at a designated location in the work area.
Alt + F4
Ctrl + Z; tool icon
Ctrl + Y; tool icon
Ctrl + X; tool bar icon
Ctrl + C; tool bar icon
Ctrl + V; tool bar icon
Delete Removes the selected
Tool Bar icon application from the current page.
Select Application
Selects the application (border is highlighted to
Ctrl + K
indicate that the application is selected)
Swap Application
Swaps the location of the selected application with the current application.
View Layout 8 Enables you to select one
of eight layouts for your page.
Getting Started 5
Application
Tool Bar
Menu
Menu Name
Menu Option Purpose
Shortcut; Alternate
TI-Nspireé CAS Handheld View
Presentation View
Displays the work area as it would appear on the handheld.
Removes the Page Sorter from the display and displays pages at full size.
Keypad Displays the TI-Nspire™
keypad
Collapse All Collapses all pages in the
Page Sorter so that only the problems are listed for the open document.
Expand All Expands the problems in
the Page Sorter so that all pages of all problems are listed.
Insert Problem Adds a new problem to
the current document.
Page Adds a new page to the
current problem.
Calculator Adds the Calculator
application to the selected page.
Tool Bar icon
Tool Bar Insert Menu
Tool Bar Insert Menu
Tool Bar Insert Menu
Graphs & Geometry
Adds the Graphs & Geometry application to
Tool Bar Insert Menu
the selected page.
Lists & Spreadsheet
Adds the Lists & Spreadsheet application
Tool Bar Insert Menu
to the selected page.
Notes Adds the Notes
application to the
Tool Bar Insert Menu
selected page.
6 Getting Started
Menu Name
Menu Option Purpose
Shortcut;
Alternate
Data & Statistics
Adds the Data & Statistics application to the selected page.
Program Editor
Allows you to create, view, open or import a program.
To ol s Variables Displays variables
available for use in the current problem.
Catalog Displays the catalog. Tool Bar icon
Symbols Displays the symbol
palette.
Math Templates
Refresh Libraries
Displays the math templates palette.
Refreshes the list of libraries that have been stored and whose library documents have been saved.
Help TI-Nspireé
CASHelp
Provides online help information for this software.
Tool Bar
Insert Menu
Ctrl + L
Tool Bar icon
F1
Activate... Allows you to activate
your software if you are using a trial copy. This option is only available when using a trial version of the TI-Nspireé CAS computer software.
About Displays information
about the TI-Nspire™ product.
Getting Started 7

Using tool bars

The TI-Nspireé CAS computer software tool bars provide shortcuts to the most frequently used menu options. When you move your cursor slowly over a tool icon, a brief text description of it displays on the screen.

Tool bar contents

The following table lists the tools available on the tool bar. These tools provide document-level operations. As you add applications to pages in your document, you will see that each application has its own tool bar, providing functions unique to that application. Application-specific tools are discussed in each application chapter.
Tool Description Alternate
Access
New Document - Creates a new document. If another document is open, you are asked if you want to save it before starting a new document.
Open Document - Displays a file browser window to let you select an existing document to open.
Save - Saves the document currently active in your work area.
Print - Opens the Print dialog box and enables you to print one or more pages in the open document.
Undo - removes the outcome of your last action.
Redo - re-applies the action undone by the Undo command. Redo is not available unless you first perform an Undo command.
File Menu ­New Document; Ctrl + N
File Menu ­Open Document; Ctrl + O
File Menu ­Save Document; Ctrl + S
File Menu ­Print; Ctrl + P
Edit Menu ­Undo; Ctrl + Z
Edit Menu ­Redo; Ctrl + Y
8 Getting Started
Tool Description Alternate
Access
Cut - removes the selected text or objects on the active page that you want removed.
Copy - makes an exact copy of the selected text or objects on the active page that you want to
Edit Menu ­Cut; Ctrl + X
Edit Menu ­Copy; Ctrl + C
replicate.
Paste - pastes the text or objects previously cut or copied onto a selected page.
Edit Menu ­Paste; Ctrl + V
Delete - removes the selected item. Edit Menu -
Delete page
Page Layout - provides a choice of eight different page layouts.
Insert - allows you to insert a problem space, page, or add
View Menu
- Layout
Insert Menu
applications to the current page.
View a floating handheld keypad ­the keypad can be used to manipulate objects and perform calculations, in the same way as the handheld keypad.
Variable/Linking - allows you to link a variable to another page in the current problem.
Catalog - allows you to insert command and functions, units, symbols and expression templates.
Symbol Palette - allows you to insert symbols.
Template Palette - allows you to insert expression templates.
Getting Started 9
Tool Description Alternate
Access
Refresh Libraries - updates the list of libraries that have been stored and whose library documents have been saved.

The Page Sorter

The Page Sorter is the area on the left side of the screen. It displays thumbnail views of all pages in the document. Use the Page Sorter to move to different pages in your document, and to quickly move and rearrange pages.
À
Â
Á
À Page Sorter - displays thumbnail sketches of all pages in all
problems in the current document. Use the scroll bar to view pages off the screen.
Á Active page - this is the page currently highlighted in the
navigation pane and active in the work area.
 Problem/Page counter - displays the problem number followed by
the page number.
10 Getting Started

Using the Work Area

The work area displays the active page in the document. You can add one or more applications to the page.

Multiple work areas on one page

You can divide each page into as many as four work areas. This allows you to use multiple applications on a page. The example below illustrates a page that has been divided into three work areas.
Getting Started 11
When you have multiple work areas on a page, the tool bar for the application in use displays as the application tool bar.

Creating multiple work areas

1. Click to display the page layout menu.
2. Move the cursor to highlight the layout you wish to add to the page, and click to select it.
The page displays the new layout.

Adding an application to a page

When you first open a new document, or add a new page to a document, you can click the center of the page to display the application menu, and select an application to add to the page.
If you are working with an application on a page, and want to add another one, you must change the page layout to one that accommodates multiple work areas.
À
Á
À Application tool bar - This area contains the tools and tool menus
specific to the application active on the page.
Á Problem/Page counter - The first value represents the problem
number of your active page, while the second value tells you the page number within the problem. For the example above, the counter reads 1.1, the first page of the first problem in the document.
12 Getting Started

Repositioning (swapping) applications on a page

If you want to change the position of applications on a page with multiple applications, you can do so by "swapping" the positions of two applications.
1. Select Swap Application from the Edit menu.
Note: The last active application you worked on is automatically selected as the first application to be swapped.
2. Click on the second application to be swapped. The swap is done when the second application is selected.
Note: When there are only two work areas, the selected application automatically swaps position with the other application on the work area.
To cancel a swap, press Esc. Press Ctrl Tab to cancel the swap and shift focus to the next app in the page layout.

Deleting pages or applications

You can delete an entire page or remove an application from a work area using the delete tools on the tool bar.
Deleting a page
1. Select the page you want to delete.
2. Select
Edit >Delete or click the Delete icon, .
Deleting an application from a page
1. Click the application you want to delete.
2. Select either Edit > Select Application or press Ctrl + K. The selected application blinks on the page.
3. Click or select Edit > Delete.

The TI-Nspire™ Keypad

The TI-Nspireé CAS computer software allows you to display and use a virtual keypad, which directly mimics the behavior of the handheld keyboard. Use the keypad to enter expressions and perform calculations with the desktop software, just as you do with the handheld.
Getting Started 13
Note: Many of the procedures in this guidebook include pressing
handheld keys. Some of these keys are available on your computer keyboard, but if you display and use the keypad, you will have access to much of the functionality and shortcuts available on the handheld keyboard.

Using the TI-Nspire™ keypad

1. To display the keypad, select View > Keypad or click . The keypad displays.

Language Settings

You specify the language for the software to display when you install it. If you want to change the language settings, you may do so at any time.

Changing the Language:

1. Select File > Change Language. The Choose a Language dialog box displays.
14 Getting Started
2. Use the dropdown menu to select the desired language. You must restart the application for the language change to take
effect.
3. Click Quit Now to apply your change. If you have made changes to the current document, you will be prompted to save it.
4. To restart the software, select Start > Programs > TI Tools > TI-
Nspire CAS
or click the TI-Nspire™ icon on your desktop.

Document Settings

You can change document settings to meet your needs for a specific set of problems. Document settings apply to the document you are working in, and can also be applied as the default settings for the system. When you customize these settings, the new options become the default settings for your work. These can be set using the TI-Nspireé CAS computer software and transmitted to a handheld when the handheld is connected to the computer.
Document Settings Options
The following table lists the document settings and their possible values.
Field Values
Display Digits Float
Float1 - Float12 Fix0 - Fix12
Angle Radian
Degree Gradian
Exponential Format Normal
Scientific Engineering
Real or Complex Format Real
Rectangular Polar
Getting Started 15
Field Values
Auto or Approximate Auto
Exact Approximate
Vector Format Rectangular
Cylindrical Spherical
Base Decimal
Hex Binary
Unit System SI
Eng/US

Customizing document settings

1. Select File > Document Settings. The Document Settings window displays.
2. Use the dropdown menus to view and select the desired option for each category.
3. When you have modified the settings to suit your needs, click OK to save the changes and close the window.
16 Getting Started

Applying document settings to the system

f Click Apply to System to apply the document settings to the entire
system. A prompt displays, asking you to verify that this is what you want to do.

Using the catalog

Use the catalog to insert commands and functions, units, symbols and expression templates into your problems. The catalog window uses five tabs to categorize commands, special characters and templates:
contains all commands and functions, in alphabetical order
contains all math functions
provides the values for standard measurement units.
provides a symbol palette for adding special characters.
contains math templates for creating two dimensional objects, including product, sum, square root and integral.
shows Public library (LibPub) objects.
Getting Started 17

Opening the catalog

1. Press k on the keypad to open the catalog.
2. Select the tab that contains the function, symbol or expression you want to insert into your problem.
3. Use the scroll bar or down arrow to display the item, and click to select it.
4. Press
· or double-click to insert the item.
Note: Some functions have a wizard to help you enter function arguments. If you prefer to enter the argument values directly on the entry line, you may need to click the wizard icon to disable it.
18 Getting Started

Entering special characters or templates

There are two icons on the tool bar that give you quick access to symbols and templates:
provides a symbol palette for adding special characters.
contains math templates for creating two dimensional
objects, including square root, integral, and product sum.
1. To access one of the palettes, click the desired icon to open the palette.
2. Use the scrollbar, arrow keys, or mouse click to highlight the item.
3. Press Enter or double-click to insert the item.
Getting Started 19

Changing the desktop view

The TI-Nspireé CAS computer software allows you to change the display to meet specific needs.
To change the desktop view:
f Click View on the tool menu and select TI-Nspireé CAS Handheld
View or Presentation view.
TI-Nspire™
The Handheld View allows you to preview documents as they will appear on the handheld.
Handheld View
20 Getting Started

Presentation View

The Presentation View displays pages without the navigation pane. This view is useful when displaying documents with a digital projector.
Getting Started 21
22 Getting Started

Working with Documents

All work that you create and save with the TI-Nspireé computer software is stored as a document. A document consists of one or more problems. Each problem contains one or more pages. A single page displays in the work area on your screen. All work occurs on pages.
Note: A TI-Nspire™ math and science learning technology document can contain up to 30 problems, and each problem can contain a maximum of 50 pages.

Creating a new document

When you first open the TI-Nspireé computer software, a blank document with one problem opens automatically. A blank page displays on the work area of the desktop. You can add applications and content to this page to create a document.
You can create a new document at any time using the following steps.
f Select
File > New or click .
The new document opens in the work area and displays a blank page.
Working with Documents 23

Adding an application to a page

To add an application to a page:
1. Select the Insert menu or click to display the application list.
24 Working with Documents
2. Click to select the application you want to add to the page. The application displays on the page, with a toolbar specific to that
application.

Adding multiple applications to a page

By default, each page contains space to add one application. If you need to add more than one application to a page, you can change the layout to accommodate as many as four applications.
1. Select the View Menu and then select Layout, or click to display the page layout menu.
Working with Documents 25
2. Highlight the layout you wish to add to the page, and click to select it.
The page displays the new layout. You can add an application to each of the new work areas on the page.
26 Working with Documents

Adding a problem to a document

A document can contain as many as 30 problems. To add a new problem to a document:
f Select the Insert Menu and then select Problem, or click and
select
Problem.
A new problem and one new page are added to your document.

Adding a page to a problem

Each problem can contain up to 50 pages. There are three ways to add a new page to a problem.
f Click and select
A new page displays. Select an application to add to the page.
-- or --
Page.
f Select the Insert Menu and then select
Page.
A new page displays. Select an application to add to the page.
-- or --
f Press Ctrl + I.
A new page displays. Select an application to add to the page.
Working with Documents 27

Using the Page Sorter

The Page Sorter is the area on the left side of the screen. It displays thumbnail views of all pages in the document. Use the Page Sorter to move to different pages in your document, and to quickly move and rearrange pages.
À
Â
Á
À Page Sorter - displays thumbnail sketches of all pages in all
problems in the current document. Use the scroll bar to view pages off the screen.
Á Active page - this is the page currently highlighted in the Page
Sorter and active in the work area.
 Problem/Page counter - displays the problem number followed by
the page number.

Selecting pages in the Page Sorter

The Page Sorter always indicates the active page in the work area.
If you are working on a page in the work area, this page is indicated in the page sorter by a bold black border.
If you are actively using the Page Sorter, the active page displayed in the work area has a blue border in the Page Sorter pane.
Clicking on any page in the Page Sorter makes it the active page, and it displays in the work area.

Rearranging pages in the Page Sorter

Use the Page Sorter to change the order of pages within a problem.
1. Click to select the thumbnail view of the page in the Page Sorter.
28 Working with Documents
2. Hold down the mouse button and drag the page to the desired position, and release to drop it in the new location.

Saving documents

To save a new document:
1. Select File > Save As..., or press . The Save TI-Nspire™ Document dialog opens. The default location
for saving documents is My Documents/TI-Nspire.
2. Select (or create) a folder in which to store the document.
3. Type a name for the new document.
4. Click
OK to save the document.
Documents are saved with the extension .tns.

Saving a document with a new name

You can save a document in a new folder and/or with a new name. To do this:
1. Select
2. Type a new name for the document.
Working with Documents 29
File > Save As... .
The Save As ... dialog opens. Select (or create) a folder in which to store the document.
3. Click OK to save the document with a new name.

Printing documents

If your computer is connected to a printer, you can print the contents of an open document. To access the print dialog, do one of the following:
Select
Press Ctrl + P.
You can also click the Printer icon in the tool bar. This immediately prints the contents of the page displayed in the work area.
The Print dialog enables you to select:
a range of problems to be printed, including all problems in the
the number of copies to be printed.
the size of the paper in your printer. The default is Letter in the US
the orientation of the printout: portrait or landscape. Landscape is
page scaling, if desired. The default is None. The printer fits the
the ability to preview what the printout will look like by clicking the
Once you have selected the print job parameters, select Print. Note: If you do not change any print settings, the entire document is
printed, not just the page displayed in the work area.
File > Print.
document.
and A4 in Europe.
the default option.
visible page on the printout, but some cropping may occur. The second option, card.
Print Preview button.
Print Screen, prints what is visible on the TI-Nspire™
30 Working with Documents

Using Print Preview

This option enables you to see how your document printout will appear before you enter a print request. You can move from page-to-page in this view to review the entire range of pages in your print request.

Linking values on pages

Variable linking is a powerful tool for building and exploring mathematical models. Values and functions created or defined in one application can interact with other TI-Nspire™ CAS computer software for math and science applications to share data. (The relationship between Graphs & Geometry and Data Collection is a special one and is discussed in the Data Collection chapter.)
There are a few features to keep in mind when using linked items:
Values can be linked between applications on one page or between different pages of the same problem.
Since all applications are linked to the same actual data, if you delete it from any application, all references to the data are lost.
If the linked value is changed in the original application, the change is reflected in all linked usages.
Each application allows you to define a value or function as a variable. Defining a variable is the first step in linking values.
Working with Documents 31

Creating TI-Nspire™ variables

Variables can be any portion or attribute of an object or function created within an application. Examples of attributes that can become variables are the area of a rectangle, the radius of a circle, the value contained in a spreadsheet cell or the contents of a row or column, or a function expression. When you create a variable, it is stored in memory.
Types of variables
You can store the following data types as variables:
Data type Examples
Expression
List {2, 4, 6, 8} {1, 1, 2}
2.54 1.25E62p xmin/10 2+3i (xN2)
2
/2
2
Matrix
123
This can be entered as:
[1,2,3;3,6,9]
369
Character string “Hello” “xmin/10” “The answer is:”
Function myfunc( arg ) ellipse( x, y, r1, r2 )
Measurement area, perimeter, length, slope, angle
Creating a variable from a Graphs & Geometry value
1. Click to select the value to store as a variable.
2. Do one of the following:
From the TI-Nspire™ tool bar, select the Variables tool ( ). The Variables options are displayed with Store highlighted.
Press
Select the Tools Menu and select the Variables option. The
Ctrl + L to display the Variables options. Store is
highlighted.
Variables options are displayed with Store highlighted.
32 Working with Documents
3. Press Enter. VAR := appears before the selected value. This is the default variable name. Type over VAR with the variable
name you want to give the value.
4. When the variable name is typed, press Enter. The value is saved to that variable name, and the stored value or its
name appears in bold text to indicate it is a stored value.
Creating a variable from a Lists & Spreadsheet cell value
You can share a cell value with other applications. When defining or referring to a shared cell in Lists & Spreadsheet, you precede the name with an apostrophe (‘).
1. Click the cell that you want to share.
2. Press
Working with Documents 33
h.
A formula is inserted into the cell with var as a placeholder for a variable name.
3. Replace the letters “var” with a name for the variable, and press
·.
The value is now available as a variable to other applications within the same problem.
Note: If a variable with the name you specified already exists in the current problem space, Lists & Spreadsheet displays an error message.
Creating Calculator variables
As alternatives to using h, you can use “:=” or the Define command. All of the following statements are equivalent.
3
5+8
& num
num := 5+8
Define num=5+8
3
3

Special considerations for variables

Rules for naming variables
Variable and function names that you create must meet the following naming rules.
Note: Avoid defining variables that use the same names as those used for statistical analysis. In some cases, an error condition could occur. Variable names used for statistical analysis are listed in the Appendix of Functions, under the
You can use 1 to 16 characters consisting of letters, digits, and the underscore character (_). Letters can be U.S. or Greek letters (but not Π or p), accented letters, and international letters.
You can use uppercase or lowercase letters. The names AB22, Ab22, aB22, and ab22 all refer to the same variable.
The first character cannot be a digit.
Do not use spaces.
If you use an underscore as the first character, the variable is considered a type of unit, such as _m, _ft, and _in. Units do not allow subsequent underscores in the name.
You cannot use a preassigned variable or function name, such as ans or min.
Note: For a complete list of TI-Nspire™ functions, refer to the TI-Nspire™ Reference Guide.
StatMatrix entry.
34 Working with Documents
Here are some examples:
Variable name Valid?
Myvar Yes
My var No. Contains a space.
a Yes
Log No. Name is preassigned to the
log( ) function.
Log1 Yes
3rdTotal No. Starts with a digit.
Preventing name conflicts
A TI-Nspire™ shared variable can have the same name as a table cell or column letter. To help you prevent name conflicts in your table formulas, Lists & Spreadsheet provides syntax rules.
To refer to a variable whose name could conflict with the name of a cell (such as A1), precede the variable name with an apostrophe (‘A1).
To refer to a table column (such as A) without conflicting with a single-letter variable name A, follow the column letter with a pair of brackets (A[]).
Use this syntax: To refer to: Remarks
myvar The shared variable
myvar.
No special syntax is needed, because this name does not conflict with a cell or column reference.
A1 The table cell at
column A, row 1.
This syntax always refers to table cell A1—never to variable A1.
‘A1 The shared variable A1. The apostrophe makes this a
reference to variable A1—never to table cell A1.
A The shared variable A. This syntax never refers to column
A.
A[] Column A of the
current table.
Working with Documents 35
Brackets make this a reference to column A—never to variable A.

Checking a variable’s value using the Calculator application

You can check the value of an existing variable by entering its name on the Calculator entry line.
f On the Calculator entry line, type the variable name num and press
Enter.
The value most recently stored in num displays as the result.

Using (linking) TI-Nspire™ variables

Sharing, or linking, the variables you create is a powerful tool for math exploration. The display of linked variables is automatically updated when the variable’s value changes.
In the following two examples, two data lists were created in Lists & Spreadsheet and then plotted in Graphs & Geometry.
When the values are altered in Lists & Spreadsheet, they are automatically updated in Graphs & Geometry.
36 Working with Documents
Linking to shared variables
To use a stored variable:
1. Display the page and select the location or object to which you want to link to a variable.
2. Do one of the following:
From the TI-Nspire™ tool bar, select the Variables tool ( ). The
Variables options are displayed with Store highlighted.
Press
Select the Tools Menu and select the Variables option. The
3. Use 9 and : to scroll the list, or type part of the variable name. As you type, the TI-Nspire™ system displays a list of variables that
begin with the letters you typed. Typing part of the name enables you to locate a variable more quickly if the list is long.
Ctrl + L to display the Variables options. Store is
highlighted.
Variables options are displayed with Store highlighted.
Working with Documents 37
4. When you locate and highlight the name of the variable you want to use, click the name or press
Enter.
The selected variable value is linked.
Linking a Lists & Spreadsheet cell to a variable
When you link a cell to a variable, Lists & Spreadsheet keeps the cell value updated to reflect the current value of the variable. The variable can be any variable in the current problem and can be defined in Graphs & Geometry, Calculator, or any instance of Lists & Spreadsheet.
Note: Do not link to a system variable. Doing so could prevent the variable from being updated by the system. System variables include ans, StatMatrix, and statistics results (such as RegEqn, dfError, and Resid).
1. Click the cell that you want to link to the variable.
2. Click , and click
Cell.
The VarLink menu displays.
3. Under
Link To, scroll to the name of the variable and click it.
The cell shows the value of the variable.
38 Working with Documents

Removing a linked variable

To remove a linked variable from a page:
1. Select the linked variable.
2. Do one of the following:
From the TI-Nspire™ tool bar, select the Variables tool ( ).
Press
Select the Tools Menu and select the Variables option. The Variables options are displayed.
Ctrl + L to display the Variables options.
3. Select
Unlink.
The link is removed from the value, and the value displays without any bolding.
Working with Documents 39
40 Working with Documents

Using Calculator

Getting started with the Calculator application

The Calculator application gives you a place to enter and evaluate math expressions. You can also use it to define variables, functions, and programs. When you define or edit a variable, function, or program, it becomes available to any TI-Nspire™ math and science learning technology application—such as Graphs & Geometry—that resides in the same problem.
You can also use Calculator to define library objects, such as variables, functions, and programs, which are accessible from any problem of any document. For information on creating library objects, see the “Libraries” section of the documentation.
À
Á
Using Calculator 41
Â
À Calculator menu – This menu is available anytime you are in the
Calculator work area. The menu in this screen snapshot may not exactly match the menu on your screen.
Á Calculator work area
You enter a math expression on the entry line and then press
Enter to evaluate the expression.
Expressions display in standard mathematical notation as you
enter them.
Entered expressions and results show in the Calculator history.
 Example of Calculator variables used in another TI-Nspire™
application
The Calculator tool menu
The Calculator tool menu lets you enter and evaluate a variety of math expressions.
Menu Name
Actions
Number
Menu Option Function
Define Inserts the Define command.
Recall Definition Lets you view, reuse, or modify
a function or program that you have defined.
Delete Variable Inserts the
Clear a-z Deletes all variables with
single-letter names.
Clear History Deletes all expressions in the
Calculator history.
Insert Comment Lets you insert text.
Library Lets you refresh all libraries, set
LibPub or LibPriv access, or insert a “\” character
Convert to Decimal
Factor Inserts factor().
Inserts
delVar command.
¢Decimal command.
42 Using Calculator
Menu Name
Menu Option Function
Least Common Multiple Inserts lcm().
Greatest Common Divisor Inserts
Remainder Inserts
gcd() function.
remain().
Fraction Tools Lets you select
getNum(), getDenom(), or comDenom().
Number Tools Lets you select
fPart(), sign(), mod(), floor(),
or ceiling().
Complex
Complex Conjugate Inserts conj().
Real Part Inserts
Imaginary Part Inserts
Polar Angle Inserts
real().
imag().
angle().
Magnitude Inserts the absolute value
template.
Convert to Polar
Convert to Rectangular
Inserts ¢Polar command.
Inserts ¢Rect command.
Algebra
Solve Inserts
Factor Inserts
solve().
factor().
propFrac(),
round(), iPart(),
Expand Inserts
Zeros Inserts
Numerical Solve Inserts
expand().
zeros().
nSolve().
Polynomial Tools Lets you select
polyRemainder(), polyQuotient(), polyGcd(), polyCoeffs(), or polyDegree().
Using Calculator 43
Menu Name
Menu Option Function
Fraction Tools Lets you select propFrac(),
getNum(), getDenom(), or comDenom().
Trigonometry Lets you select
tCollect().
Complex Lets you select
cFactor(), or cZeros().
Extract Lets you select
tExpand() or
cSolve(),
left() or right().
Finance Solver Starts the Finance Solver.
Calculus
Derivative Inserts the Derivative template.
Integral Inserts the Integral template.
Limit Inserts the Limit template.
Sum Inserts the Sum template.
Product Inserts the Product template.
Function Minimum Inserts
Function Maximum Inserts
Arc Length Inserts
Series Lets you select
Differential Equation
fMin().
fMax().
arcLen().
taylor(),
series(), or dominantTerm().
Inserts
deSolve().
Solver
Implicit Differentiation Inserts
Numerical Calculations Lets you select
Probability
impDif().
nDeriv(), nInt(),
nfMin(), or nfMax()
Factorial (!) Inserts !.
Permutations Inserts
Combinations Inserts
44 Using Calculator
nPr().
nCr().
Menu Name
Statistics
Menu Option Function
Random Lets you select rand(),
randInt(), randBin(), randNorm(), randSamp(), or RandSeed.
Distributions Lets you select from several
distributions, such as
, Binomial Cdf, and
Pdf Inverse F.
Normal
Stat Calculations Lets you select from several
statistics calculations, such as one-variable analysis, two­variable analysis, and regressions.
Stat Results Inserts the stat.results variable.
List Math Lets you select from several list
calculations, such as minimum, maximum, and mean.
List Operations Lets you select from several list
operations, such as sorting, filling, and converting to a matrix.
Distributions Lets you select from several
distributions, such as
, Binomial Cdf, and
Pdf Inverse F.
Normal
Confidence Intervals Lets you select from several
confidence intervals, such as
t interval and zinterval.
Stat Tests Lets you select from several
tests such as
.
test
Matrix & Vector
Tra nspose
Using Calculator 45
Inserts
ANOVA, t test, z
T
Menu Name
Menu Option Function
Determinant Inserts det().
Inserts
ref().
rref().
Row-Echelon Form Inserts
Reduced Row-Echelon Form
Simultaneous Inserts
simult().
Create Lets you select from several
matrix-creation options, such as identity, diagonal, submatrix, and others.
Norms Lets you select
rowNorm(), or colNorm().
Dimensions Lets you select
rowDim(), or colDim().
Row Operations Lets you select
rowAdd(), mRow(), or mRowAdd().
norm(),
dim(),
rowSwap(),
Element Operations Inserts “dot” operators such as
.+ (dot add) and .^ (dot power).
Advanced Inserts
Vector Inserts
eigVl(), eigVc(), LU, or
QR.
unitV(), crossP(), dotP(),
8Polar, 8Rect ,8Cylind, or 8Sphere.
Functions & Programs
Program Editor Lets you view, open for editing,
import, or create a new program or function.
Func...EndFunc Inserts a template for creating a
function.
Prgm...EndPrgm Inserts a template for creating a
program.
Local Inserts the
46 Using Calculator
Local command.
Menu Name
Menu Option Function
Control Lets you select from a list of
function and program-control templates, such as
If...Then...EndIf, While...EndWhile, Try...E lse...End Try, and others.
Transfer Inserts transfer commands
Return, Cycle, Exit, Lbl, Stop,
or Goto.
Disp Displays intermediate results.
Mode Inserts commands for setting or
reading modes, such as display digits, angle mode, base mode, and others.
Add New Line Starts a new line within a
function or program definition.

Before you begin

f Open the computer software, and add the Calculator application to
a document.

Entering and evaluating math expressions

Options for entering expressions

Calculator lets you enter and edit expressions through several methods.
By clicking keys on the virtual keypad, including the Catalog ( key. (To display the virtual keypad, click
By selecting items from the Calculator menu
By pressing shortcut keys on the computer keyboard.
View > Keypad.)

Entering simple math expressions

Note: To enter a negative number on the handheld, press v. To enter a
negative number on a computer keyboard, press the hyphen key (
Suppose you want to evaluate
1. Select the entry line in the Calculator work area.
Using Calculator 47
k)
-).
2. Type 2^8 to begin the expression.
3. Press
4. Press Enter to evaluate the expression.
Note: If a result does not fit on the same line with the expression, it displays on the next line.
¢ to return the cursor to the baseline, and then type *43/12.
The expression displays in standard mathematical notation, and the result displays on the right side of the Calculator.

Controlling the form of a result

You might expect to see a decimal result instead of 2752/3 in the preceding example. A close decimal equivalent is 917.33333..., but that’s only an approximation.
By default, Calculator retains the more precise form: 2752/3. Any result that is not a whole number displays in a fractional or symbolic form (1/2,
2
p, , etc.). This reduces rounding errors that could be introduced by intermediate results in chained calculations.
You can force a decimal approximation in a result:
By holding down expression.
Ctrl before pressing Enter to evaluate the
Pressing
By including a decimal in the expression (for example,
43).
48 Using Calculator
/
· forces approximate result.
43. instead of
By wrapping the expression in the approx() function.
By changing the document’s
Auto or Approximate mode setting to
Approximate. (On the File menu, select Document Settings.) Note that this method forces all results in all of the document’s problems to approximate.

Inserting items from the Catalog

You can use the Catalog to insert system functions and commands, units, symbols, and expression templates into the Calculator entry line.
1. Click to open the Catalog.
Note: Some functions have a wizard that prompts you for each argument. If you prefer to enter the argument values directly on the entry line, you may need to disable the wizard.
2. Click the tab for the category of the item.
Using Calculator 49
contains all commands and functions, in alphabetical order
contains all math functions
provides the values for standard measurement units.
provides a symbol palette for adding special characters.
contains math templates for creating two dimensional objects, including product, sum, square root and integral.
shows Public library (LibPub) objects.
3. Click to select the item that you want to insert.
4. Press
Enter to insert the item into the entry line.

Using an expression template

The Calculator has templates for entering matrices, piecewise functions, systems of equations, integrals, derivatives, products, and other math expressions.
For example, suppose you want to evaluate
1. Click to display the Template palette.
2. Select to insert the algebraic sum template. The template appears on the entry line with small blocks
representing elements that you can enter. A cursor appears next to one of the elements to show that you can type a value for that element.
50 Using Calculator
3. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor to each element’s position, and type a value or expression for each element.
4. Press Enter to evaluate the expression.

Creating matrices

1. Click to display the Template palette.
2. Select . The Create a Matrix dialog box displays.
3. Type the Number of rows.
4. Type the Number of columns, and then select OK.
Using Calculator 51
Calculator displays a template with spaces for the rows and columns. Note: If you create a matrix with a large number of rows and
columns, it may take a few moments to appear.
5. Type the matrix values into the template, and press Enter to define the matrix.

Inserting a row or column into a matrix

f To insert a new row, hold down Alt and press Enter. f To insert a new column, hold down
Shift and press Enter.

Inserting expressions using a wizard

You can use a wizard to simplify entering some expressions. The wizard contains labeled boxes to help you enter the arguments in the expression.
For example, suppose you want to fit a y=mx+b linear regression model to the following two lists:
{1,2,3,4,5} {5,8,11,14,17}
1. Click to open the Catalog.
2. Click to show an alphabetic list of functions.
3. Press
4. Press
5. If the Use Wizard option is not checked, click it.
6. Press
52 Using Calculator
¤, and then press L to jump to the entries that begin with “L.”
¤ as necessary to highlight LinRegMx.
Enter.
A wizard opens, giving you a labeled box to type each argument.
7. Type {1,2,3,4,5} as X List.
8. Press Tab to move to the Y List box.
9. Type
{5,8,11,14,17} as Y List.
10. If you want to store the regression equation in a specific variable, press Tab, and then replace Save RegEqn To with the name of the variable.
11. Select OK to close the wizard and insert the expression into the entry line.
Calculator inserts the expression and adds a statement to display the variable stat.results, which will contain the results.
LinRegMx {1,2,3,4,5},{5,8,11,14,17},1 : stat.results Calculator then displays the stat.results variables.
Note: You can copy values from the stat.results variables and paste them into the entry line.
Using Calculator 53

Creating a piecewise function

1. Begin the function definition. For example, type the following.
Define f(x,y)=
2. Click to display the Template palette.
3. Select . The Piecewise Function dialog box displays.
4. Type the
Number of Function Pieces, and select OK.
Calculator displays a template with spaces for the pieces.
5. Type the expressions into the template, and press Enter to define the function.
6. Enter an expression to evaluate or graph the function. For example, enter the expression f(1,2) on the Calculator entry line.

Creating a system of equations

1. Open the Template palette.
2. Select . The Create a System of Equations dialog box displays.
3. Type the Calculator displays a template with spaces for the equations.
Number of Equations, and select OK.
54 Using Calculator
4. Type the equations into the template, and press Enter (·) to
define the system.

Deferring evaluation

You don’t have to complete and evaluate an expression as soon as you begin typing it. You can type part of an expression, leave to check some work you did on another page, and then come back to complete the expression later.

Working with variables

When you first store a value in a variable, you give the variable a name.
If the variable does not already exist, Calculator creates it.
If the variable already exists, Calculator updates it. Variables within a problem are shared by TI-Nspire™ math and science
learning technology applications. For example, you can create a variable in Calculator and then use or modify it in Graphs & Geometry or Lists & Spreadsheet within the same problem.
Exception: Variables created with the defined function or program are not accessible outside that function or program.

Storing a value in a variable

This example creates a variable named num and stores the result of the expression 5+8
1. On the Calculator entry line, type the expression
3
in that variable.
Local command within a user-
5+8^3.
2. Press
3. On the virtual keypad, click
Using Calculator 55
¢ to expand the cursor to the baseline.
/h and then type the variable
name
num.
This means: Calculate 5+83 and store the result as a variable named num.
4. Press
Enter.
Calculator creates the variable num and stores the result there.

Alternative methods for storing a variable

As alternatives to using & (store), you can use “:=” or the Define command. All of the following statements are equivalent.
3
5+8
& num
num := 5+8
Define num=5+8
3
3

Checking a variable’s value

You can check the value of an existing variable by entering its name on the Calculator entry line.
f On the Calculator entry line, type the variable name
Enter.
The value most recently stored in num displays as the result.
num and press

Using a variable in a calculation

After storing a value in a variable, you can use the variable name in an expression as a substitute for the stored value.
1. Type
2. Type
56 Using Calculator
4*25*num^2 on the entry line, and press Enter.
Calculator substitutes 517, the value currently assigned to num, and evaluates the expression.
4*25*nonum^2, and press Enter.
Because the variable nonum has not been defined, it is treated algebraically in the result.

Updating a variable

If you want to update a variable with the result of a calculation, you must store the result explicitly.
Entry Result Comment
a := 2
3
a
a
a := a
a
2
a
& a
3
2
8 Result not stored in variable a.
2 8Variable a updated with result.
8
64 Variable a updated with result.
a
64

Types of variables

You can store the following TI-Nspire™ math and science learning technology data types as variables:
Data type Examples
Expression
2.54 1.25E6 2p 2+3i (xN2)
2
/2
2
List {2, 4, 6, 8} {1, 1, 2}
Matrix
123
This can be entered as:
[1,2,3;3,6,9]
369
Character string “Hello” “xmin/10” “The answer is:”
Function myfunc(arg) ellipse(x, y, r1, r2)

Entering multiple statements on the entry line

To enter several statements on a single line, separate them with a colon (“:”). Only the result of the last expression is shown.
Using Calculator 57

Rules for naming variables

Note: In the unlikely event that you create a variable with the same
name as one used for statistical analysis or by the Finance Solver, an error condition could occur. If you begin entering a variable name that is already in use in the current problem, the software shows the entry in
bold to let you know.
Variable names must be in one of the forms xxx or xxx.yyy. The xxx part can have 1 to 16 characters. The yyy part, if used, can have 1 to 15 characters. If you use the xxx.yyy form, both xxx and yyy are required; you cannot start or end a variable name with a period “.”
Characters can consist of letters, digits, and the underscore character (_). Letters can be U.S. or Greek letters (but not Π or p), accented letters, and international letters.
You can use uppercase or lowercase letters. The names AB22, Ab22, aB22, and ab22 all refer to the same variable.
You cannot use a digit as the first character of xxx or yyy.
Do not use spaces.
If you want a variable to be treated as a complex number, use an underscore as the last character of the name.
If you want a variable to be treated as a type of unit (such as _m or _ft), use an underscore as the first character of the name. You cannot use subsequent underscores in the name.
You cannot use a preassigned variable, function, or command name, such as Ans,
Note: For a complete list of TI-Nspire™ functions, refer to the Reference Guide.
Library documents and library objects are subject to additional naming restrictions. For details, see the “Libraries” section of the documentation.
Here are some examples:
min, or tan.
Variable names Valid?
Myvar, my.var Yes
My var, list 1 No. Contains a space.
a, b, c Yes
Log, Ans No. Preassigned to a system function or variable.
Log1, list1.a, list1.b Yes
58 Using Calculator
Variable names Valid?
3rdTotal, list1.1 No. xxx or yyy starts with a digit.

Reusing the last answer

Each instance of Calculator automatically stores the last calculated result as a variable named Ans. You can use Ans to create a chain of calculations.
Note: Do not link to Ans or any system variable. Doing so could prevent the variable from being updated by the system. System variables include statistics results (such as Stat.RegEqn, Stat.dfError, and Stat.Resid) and Finance Solver variables (such as tvm.n, tvm.pmt, and tvm.fv).
As an example of using Ans, calculate the area of a garden plot that is 1.7 meters by 4.2 meters. Then use the area to calculate the yield per square meter if the plot produces a total of 147 tomatoes.
1. On the Calculator entry line, type
2. Type
147/ans, and press Enter to find the yield.
1.7*4.2, and press Enter.
As a second example, calculate and then add
3. Type
4. Type
3.76/(-7.9+sqrt(5)), and press Enter.
ans+2*log(45), and press Enter.
2*log(45).
Using Calculator 59

Temporarily substituting a value for a variable

Use the “|” (such that) operator to assign a value to a variable for just a single execution of the expression.
a:=200.12 200.12
a2 | a=100
a 200.12
10000

Creating user-defined functions and programs

You can use the Define command to create your own functions and programs. You can create them in the Calculator application or in the Program Editor and then use them in other TI-Nspire™ applications.
For information on programming with the Program Editor, see the “Programming” and “Libraries” sections of the documentation.

Defining a single-line function

Suppose you want to define a function named cube() that calculates the cube of a number or variable.
1. On the Calculator entry line, type
Enter.
The message “Done” confirms that the function has been defined.
2. Type
cube(2) and press Enter to test the function.
Define cube(x)=x^3 and press

Defining a multiple-line function using templates

You can define a function consisting of multiple statements entered on separate lines. A multiple-line function may be easier to read than one with multiple statements separated by colons.
Note: You can create multiple-line functions only by using the command. You cannot use the := or & operators to create multiple-line definitions. The Func...EndFunc template serves as a container for the statements.
60 Using Calculator
Define
As an example, define a function named g(x,y) that compares two arguments x and y. If argument x > argument y, the function should return the value of x. Otherwise, it should return the value of y.
1. On the Calculator entry line, type
Enter yet.
Define g(x,y)=. Do not press
2. On the Functions & Programs menu, select Func...EndFunc. Calculator inserts the template.
3. On the
If...Then...Else...EndIf.
Functions & Programs menu, select Control, and then select
Calculator inserts the template.
4. Type the remaining parts of the function, using the arrow keys to move the cursor from line to line.
5. Press
Enter to complete the definition.
6. Evaluate g(3,-7) to test the function.
Using Calculator 61

Defining a multiple-line function manually

Note: To start each new line without completing the function definition,
you hold down As an example, define a function
cumulative sum of integers from 1 through x.
1. On the Calculator entry line, type
Enter yet.
Alt and press Enter.
cum_sum(x) that calculates the
Define cum_sum(x)=. Do not press
2. On the
Functions & Programs menu, select Func...EndFunc.
Calculator inserts the template.
3. Type the following lines, pressing
4. After typing
Return temp_sum, press Enter to complete the
Alt Enter at the end of each line.
definition.
5. Evaluate cum_sum(5) to test the function.
62 Using Calculator

Defining a program

Defining a program is similar to defining a multiple-line function. The
Prgm...EndPrgm template serves as a container for the program
statements.
As an example, create a program named arguments. Based on the comparison, the program should display the text “x greater than y” or “x not greater than y” (showing the values of x and y in the text).
1. On the Calculator entry line, type Define prog1(x,y)=. Do not press
Enter yet.
g(x,y) that compares two
2. On the
Functions & Programs menu, select Prgm...EndPrgm.
Calculator inserts the template.
3. On the Functions & Programs menu, select Control, and then select
If...Then...Else...EndIf.
Calculator inserts the template.
4. Type the remaining parts of the function, using the arrow keys to move the cursor from line to line.
Using Calculator 63
5. Press Enter to complete the definition.
6. Execute prog1(3,-7) to test the program.

Recalling a function or program definition

You might want to reuse or modify a function or program that you have defined.
1. On the A dialog box appears with a list of defined functions and programs.
2. Select the name from the list. The definition (For example
entry line for editing.
Actions menu, select Recall Definition.
Define f(x)=1/x+3) is pasted into the
Editing
Although you cannot edit an expression in the Calculator history, you can copy all or part of an expression from the history and paste it to the entry line. You can then edit the entry line.
Calculator
expressions

Positioning the cursor in an expression

f Press Tab to cycle through the parameters of a template.
– or –
64 Using Calculator
Press ¡, ¢, £, or ¤ to move the cursor through the expression. The cursor moves to the closest valid position in the direction that you
press.
Note: An expression template may force the cursor to move through its parameters, even though some parameters may not be exactly in the path of the cursor movement. For example, moving upward from the main argument of an integral always moves the cursor to the top limit.

Inserting into an expression in the entry line

1. Position the cursor at the point where you want to insert additional elements.
2. Type the elements that you want to insert.
Note: When you insert an open parenthesis, Calculator adds a temporary close parenthesis, displayed in gray. You can override the temporary parenthesis by typing the same parenthesis manually or by entering something past the temporary parenthesis (thereby implicitly validating its position in the expression). After you override the temporary gray parenthesis, it is replaced with a black parenthesis.

Selecting part of an expression

1. Click a starting point in the expression.
2. Press and hold the Shift key and press ¡, ¢, £, or ¤ to select.
– or –
Drag through the expression to select.

Deleting all or part of an expression on the entry line

1. Select the part of the expression to delete.
2. Press Delete.

Financial calculations

Several TI-Nspire™ CAS functions provide financial calculations, such as time value of money, amortization calculations, and return on investment calculations.
The Calculator application also includes a Finance Solver. It lets you dynamically solve several types of problems, such as loans and investments.

Using the Finance Solver

1. On the Algebra menu, select Finance Solver.
Using Calculator 65
The solver displays its default values (or previous values, if you have already used the solver in the current problem).
2. Enter each known value, using the
tab key to cycle through the
items. – The help information at the bottom of the solver describes each
item.
You might need to temporarily skip the value that you want to
calculate.
Make sure to set PpY, CpY, and PmtAt to the correct settings (12,
12, and END in this example).
3. Press Tab as necessary to select the item that you want to calculate, and then press
Enter.
The solver calculates the value and stores all the values in “tvm.” variables, such as tvm.n and tvm.pmt. These variables are accessible to all TI-Nspire™ CAS applications within the same problem.
66 Using Calculator

Finance functions included

In addition to the Finance Solver, TI-Nspire™ CAS built-in finance functions include:
TVM functions for calculating future value, present value, number of payments, interest rate, and payment amount.
Amortization information such as amortization tables, balance, sum of interest payments, and sum of principal payments.
Net present value, internal rate of return, and modified rate of return.
Conversions between nominal and effective interest rates, and calculation of days between dates.
Notes:
Finance functions do not automatically store their argument values or
results to the TVM variables.
For a complete list of TI-Nspire™ functions, refer to the Reference
Guide.
Working with the
As you enter and evaluate expressions in the Calculator application, each entry/result pair is saved in the Calculator history. The history gives you a way to review your calculations, repeat a set of calculations, and copy expressions for reuse in other pages or documents.
Calculator
history

Viewing the Calculator history

The history of the expressions you have entered accumulates above the entry line, with the most recent expression at the bottom. If the history does not fit in the Calculator work area, you can scroll through the history.
Note: You may notice a processing slowdown when the history contains a large number of entries.
f Press £ or ¤.
– or –
Drag the scrollbar slider.
Using Calculator 67
À
Á
À
À Scrollbar buttons Á Scroll position indicator

Reusing a previous expression or result

You can copy an expression, subexpression, or result from the Calculator history and paste it into the entry line or into other TI-Nspire™ applications.
1. Scroll to the item that you want to copy.
2. Select the item.
Note: The float setting for the current document may limit the number of decimal places displayed in a result. To capture the result in its full precision, select it either by scrolling with the up and down arrow keys or by triple-clicking it.
3. Press Ctrl C to make the copy.
4. Select the location where you want the copy.
5. Press
68 Using Calculator
Ctrl V to paste the copy.
Note: If you copy an expression that uses variables into a different
problem, the values of those variables are not copied. You must define the variables in the problem where you paste the expression.

Deleting an expression from the history

When you delete an expression, all variables and functions defined in the expression retain their current values.
1. Drag or use the arrow keys to select the expression that you want to delete.
2. Press
Delete.
The expression and its result are removed.

Clearing the Calculator history

When you clear the history, all variables and functions defined in the history retain their current values. If you clear the history by mistake, use the undo feature.
1. On the All expressions and results are removed from the history.
Actions menu, select Clear History.
Using Calculator 69
70 Using Calculator

Using Graphs & Geometry

Getting started with Graphs & Geometry

The Graphs & Geometry application enables you to:
Graph and explore functions.
Create and explore geometric shapes.
Animate points on objects or graphs and explore their behavior.
Graph data collected by the Data Collection tool.
Explore graphical and geometric transformations.
Explore and investigate concepts of calculus.
Link to data created by other applications and utilize it in Graphs & Geometry.
À
Á
Â
À Graphs & Geometry toolbar (displays when a Graphs & Geometry
work area is active)
Á Sample Graphs & Geometry work area in Plane Geometry View with
Analytic Window shown
 Graphs & Geometry data entry line
Using Graphs & Geometry 71

Getting acquainted with Graphs & Geometry

f Open the TI-Nspireé computer software, and add the Graphs &
Geometry application to your page.
When you add Graphs & Geometry to a page, your work area contains the x and y axes for a graph, as well as a function entry line and Graphs & Geometry-specific tools.
The basic components of the Graphs & Geometry application are the:
Tool menu line
Work area (which contains the axes)
Entry line.

The Tool menu

The Graphs & Geometry tool menu appears immediately above the work area on the screen. It displays icons for menus that contain tools which enable you to graph and explore different types of functions, draw and explore geometric structures, as well as other capabilities which will be covered in this chapter.
The following tables contain a brief summary of what each menu contains or tool enables you to do within the Graphs & Geometry work area.
.
Menu Option List Overview of Tool Actions
Actions Provides tools to access the pointer, hide or
show various graph features, add text, delete all objects in the work area, access the calculate tool, and access the attributes for an object or function.
View Provides tools to manipulate the work area
features and display.
Graph Type Enables you to select the type of graph to
plot in the work area: function, parametric, polar, or scatter plot. The entry line below the work area shows the notational conventions to use to specify a function for the selected graph type.
Window Provides different Zoom settings as well as
the ability to define the x- and y-axis minimums and maximums.
72 Using Graphs & Geometry
Menu Option List Overview of Tool Actions
Trace Creates and activates a trace on the graph.
Sets the trace increment and enables you to create and remove geometric trace.
Points & Lines Provides tools for drawing various types of
points, lines, segments, rays, tangents, and vectors.
Measurement Provides tools for measuring angles, lengths,
areas, integrals, and slope.
Shapes Provides tools for drawing circles, triangles,
rectangles, and polygons.
Construction Provides tools to define perpendicular and
parallel lines, bisectors, midpoints, locus, compass, and perform measurement transfers.
Transformation Provides tools for symmetry, reflection,
translation, rotation, and dilation.
Action Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Pointer Selects, moves, and manipulates
objects.
Hide/Show Enables you to hide or display any
object, function, or feature on the work area.
Attributes Enables you to change the attributes
of a selected object in the work area. Attributes vary depending upon the object selected.
Delete All Removes all objects and graphed
functions from the page.
Text Places user-created alpha-numeric
values on the page. Numerical values can be applied to objects. The tool can be used to enter a function and graph it.
Coordinates and Equations
Using Graphs & Geometry 73
Displays the coordinates of a point or the equation of a line or circle.
Tool name Tool function
Calculate Opens the calculate tool to perform
calculations using measurements, numerical values, or calculation results. This tool is different from the Calculator application.
Redefine Redefines a previously defined point
to a new location. For example, it can define a point in free space to a location on an object or from one object to another object.
Data Collection Adds the Data Collection tool to the
current Graphs & Geometry page. See the Data Collection chapter for details on using this tool.
View Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Graphing Places the work area in graphing mode.
When you add Graphs & Geometry to a page the Cartesian axes displays in the work area with a function entry line below.
Plane Geometry Places the work area in geometry mode.
Show scale displays, but no axes, grid, or entry line displays.
Show Analytic Window
Opens a small graphing window on a plane geometry work area. Places the Graphs & Geometry work area in modeling mode. This tool can be used only after Plane Geometry is selected.
Hide (Show) Axes Hides the axes if they are currently
displayed on the page. Displays the axes if none are displayed on the page.
Show (Hide) Grid Turns the grid on or off on the page.
Objects can be attached to the grid when the grid is displayed.
Hide (Show) Entry Line Hides or displays the entry line on the
page.
74 Using Graphs & Geometry
Tool name Tool function
Show (Hide) Scale Toggles between showing and hiding the
scale legend on the work area. When the scale is shown, the value and/or units can be changed to desired values/units. This applies only to geometric constructions.
Add Function Table Launches the Lists & Spreadsheet
function table. When launched from Graphs & Geometry, it is pre-populated with all functions defined in the problem with the exception of hidden functions. More information on using Function Tables is available in the Lists & Spreadsheet chapter of this document.
Graphing Type Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Function Displays the function mode entry line at
the bottom of the work area.
Parametric Displays the parametric mode entry line
at the bottom of the work area. This display shows the t-min, t-max, and t-step values. The defaults are 0-2p max, and p/24 for t-step.
Polar Displays the Polar mode entry line at the
bottom of the work area. This display shows the q-min, q-max, and q-step values. The defaults are 0-2p and q-max, and p/24 for q-step.
Scatter Plot Displays the Scatter Plot mode entry line
at the bottom of the work area.
for t-min, t-
for q-min
Window Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Window Settings Displays the Window Settings dialog
that enables you to enter the x-min, x-max, y-min, and y-max values for the axes.
Using Graphs & Geometry 75
Tool name Tool function
Zoom - Box Enables you to define an area that
you want to enlarge.
Zoom - In Enables you to define the center
point of the zoom in location. The Zoom In factor is approximately 2.
Zoom - Out Enables you to define the center
point of the zoom out location. The Zoom Out factor is approximately 2.
Zoom - Standard Automatically sets x-min, x-max, y-
min, and y-max to center the origin. The x and y scale factors are equal. This is the default axes setting when Graphs & Geometry is first added to a page.
Zoom - Quadrant 1 Automatically sets x-min, x-max, y-
min, and y-max to emphasize the first quadrant. The x and y scale factors are equal.
Zoom - User If you have modified any window
settings (such as x-min), Zoom-User saves the present settings. If you have not modified any window settings since last selecting Zoom­User, Zoom-User restores those settings.
Zoom - Trig Automatically sets x-min and x-max
to integer multiples of p. The x and y scale factors are equal.
Zoom - Data Redefines the axes so that all
statistical data points are displayed.
Zoom - Fit Recalculates y-min and y-max to
include the minimum and maximum y values of all functions between the current x-min and x-max. Hidden functions are not included.
76 Using Graphs & Geometry
Trace Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Graph Trace Places and activates a trace point on
the graph, enabling you to trace a function and identify points of interest as they are encountered during the trace.
Trace Setting Enables you to set the increment to use
between consecutive values jumped to during Graph Trace.
Geometry Trace Enables you to view the pathway of a
geometric or analytic object (such as a function graph) on the work area. The pathway has a delayed fade. As more movement occurs on the work area, older portions of the pathway fade. If you temporarily halt movement, a portion of the trace path remains displayed.
Erase Geometry Trace Halts geometric trace and erases all
persistent pathways on the work area.
Points and Lines Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Point Constructs a point defined in free space,
on an object, or at the intersection of two objects.
Point On Constructs a point defined on an object.
When the object is a function graph, the coordinates are displayed.
Intersection Point Constructs a point at each intersection of
two selected objects.
Line Constructs an infinite line defined by
two points or by a point and a direction. If you press Shift while creating the line, you limit its orientation, relative to the x-axis or the horizontal aspect of the screen, by 15- increments.
Using Graphs & Geometry 77
Tool name Tool function
Segment Constructs a segment, defined by two
end points, which may be created or defined in free space or on a defined object. If you press Shift while creating the segment, you limit its orientation, relative to the x-axis or the horizontal aspect of the screen, by 15- increments.
Ray Constructs a ray, defined by two points
or by a point and a direction, extending infinitely. If you press Shift while creating the ray, you limit its orientation, relative to the x-axis or the horizontal aspect of the screen, by 15- increments.
Tangent Creates a tangent line.
Vector Constructs a vector with magnitude and
direction defined by two points. If you press Shift while creating the vector, you limit its orientation, relative to the x-axis or the horizontal aspect of the screen, by 15- increments.
Measurement Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Length Displays the distance between two
selected points or the length of a segment, perimeter, circumference, or radius.
Area Displays the area of a selected polygon
or circle.
Slope Displays the slope of a selected line or
segment. A vertical slope is represented by %.
Angle Displays the measure of an angle or an
angle defined by three selected points.
78 Using Graphs & Geometry
Tool name Tool function
Integral Calculates and displays the numerical
value of the integral of a selected function, and shades the area between the curve and the x-axis from point a to point b.
Shapes Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Circle Constructs a circle. The center point is
defined by the first click on the page and the radius is determined by the second click.
Triangle Constructs a triangle, defined by three
points (vertices), which may be created or defined in free space or on a defined object.
Rectangle Constructs a rectangle.
Polygon Constructs an n-sided polygon. Each click
defines a vertex, and the polygon is completed by clicking the initial vertex or by pressing Enter.
Regular Polygon Constructs an n-sided regular polygon.
Construction Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Perpendicular Constructs a line perpendicular to a
selected line, segment, ray, vector, axis, or side of a polygon, and passing through a created or selected point.
Parallel Constructs a line parallel to a selected
line, segment, ray, vector, axis, or side of a polygon, and passing through a created or selected point.
Perpendicular Bisector Constructs a perpendicular line that
bisects two points, a segment, or side of a polygon.
Using Graphs & Geometry 79
Tool name Tool function
Angle Bisector Constructs a line that bisects an angle
identified by three selected points where the second point is the vertex.
Midpoint Constructs a midpoint of two selected
points, a segment, or side of a polygon.
Locus Constructs the locus of a point or
object defined by the movement of a driver point along a pathway. Pathways are geometric shapes and function graphs.
Compass Constructs a circle from a center point
with a radius defined by a selected segment or the distance between two points.
Measurement Transfer Transfers an entered or measured
value to a selected object, axis, or function graph. If the original value changes, the change is also reflected in the transferred measurement.
Transformation Menu Tools
Tool name Tool function
Symmetry Creates the image of an object rotated
- around a point.
180
Reflection Creates the image of an object reflected
across a line, segment, ray, vector, axis, or side of a polygon.
Translation Creates the image of an object translated
by a specified vector.
Rotation Creates the image of an object rotated
around a point by a specified angular value.
Dilation Creates the image of an object dilated
from a point by a specified factor.
80 Using Graphs & Geometry
Note: When you select a tool to use, that tool’s icon displays in the upper left corner of the Graphs & Geometry page. It is there to remind you which tool is currently active.

Using the Context menu

The context menu provides the tools most commonly used with the selected object, function, or axes.
To display the context menu, right click on an object, function, or anywhere on the work area.
The first two options on this menu are:
•Recent 4: lists the 9 most recent tools you used. This is a session-
level listing. The tools used on any Graphs & Geometry page are shown, regardless of the document in which they are used.
Attributes: enables you to access the attributes appropriate for
the function, object, or work area
Additional options that are appropriate for your selection also display on the menu. For example, the Context menu for a triangle also contains the Hide/Show, Delete, Length, and Area options.
The following examples show the context menu for a function and a circle.
Context menu for a function (analytic object)
Context menu for a geometric object

The work area

There are two work area views available:
•Graphing
Plane Geometry
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The graphing view

The graphing view is the default Graphs & Geometry work area display. It contains:
the default Cartesian axes in the Zoom Standard format (1:1 scale).
the entry line from which you can graph up to 100 functions.
Axes, entry line, and grid can all be displayed or hidden, but in this view, no scale for any drawn shapes (e.g. Circle, etc.) can be displayed. All objects created in this view are analytic objects. Therefore, their displayed size and proportion are affected only by the scale of the axis system (the command "Show Scale" has no effect).

The plane geometry view

The plane geometry view removes the axes and entry line from the work area to enable you to draw geometric shapes and explore them. In this view, you can display and set a scale for your drawings.
To change to Plane Geometry view:
1. From the View menu, select the Plane Geometry View tool.
2. The display refreshes to clear the axes and entry line and display a default scale. Any graphs or drawings created in graphing view are not displayed on the plane geometry area.
To return to graphing mode:
f From the View Menu, select the Graphing View tool.
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The display refreshes to show the axes and entry line. Note: Any geometric constructions created while in the plane
geometry view are retained and displayed along with any previously­created graphs.

The analytic window

The analytic (graphing) window is available in the plane geometry view. It adds an analytic (graphing) window on top of a portion of the plane geometry work area. This provides a combination work area that enables you to use both work area types without toggling the view between them.
To open the analytic window:
1. Ensure that the work area is in Plane Geometry view.
2. From the View menu, select Show Analytic Window .
3. A reduced size graphing window opens on the lower left corner of the plane geometry space.
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Graphing area
Modeling view - shows the previous two views and the work done on both.
Plane Geometry area
You can alter the work area, without changing the view, to temporarily:
hide the axes. Any graphs or objects remain displayed on the work area.
hide the entry line.
hide the scale.
resize the axes using the zoom tools or by dragging tic marks.
To display more of the plane geometry area, pan the screen.

To remove the analytic window from the work area

1. From the View menu, select Hide Analytic Window .
Object behavior in different views
When you create an object in the graph area, it is called an analytic object, and all points of the object reside on the graph plane. When you change the axes scale, you automatically affect the appearance of the object. If you calculate a value associated with the object such as the area, only generic units are assigned (u for unit). These objects remain associated with the coordinate plane until you delete them or redefine them to the plane geometry area. When working with a modeling view work area, you cannot move an analytic object onto the plane geometry area.
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When you create an object in the plane geometry area, it is a geometric object. These objects can have an assigned scale, such as miles or centimeters, instead of u for units. You can lock a point, such as one vertex of a triangle, on the work area, but since the object is not tied to a coordinate plane, you cannot display coordinates for that vertex. When working with a modeling view work area, you can move a geometric object into the graphing work area. The object remains a geometric object, and is not associated with the axes.
The examples below shows a modeling work area and the two types of objects: A is an analytic object while B is a geometric object.
While the two circles appear identical, they do not behave in the same way. Analytic objects are impacted when the graph area is altered. In the next example, the axes were altered. Notice that only Circle A’s appearance is affected by the change.
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If you construct an object while the axis is hidden, the object created will be a geometric object. However, if you construct an analytic object and later hide the axis, the object remains an analytical one.
Triangle as it appears in Graphing view. The unlabeled vertex remains a geometric point.
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Summary of differences
Feature Graph Area Plane Geometry Area
Aspect Ratio Adjustable; initially 1:1 Always 1:1 (static)
Units of Measure Generic (displayed as u) User-defined (per scale)
Area Graph Type Cartesian (default) or
Polar
Uses Define and graph
functions to: – Graph
functions of the form f (x)
Create scatter
plots
Graph polar
equations
Graph
parametric functions
Construct analytic objects
Label equations
Identify coordinates for discrete points
Behavior Analytic constructions
must remain in the analytic area.
Euclidian
Construct Euclidean objects
Create transformations
•Determine measurements (e.g., length, angle, area)
Geometric constructions can be moved into the analytic area but remain geometric in nature.

Creating and manipulating axes

When you add the Graphs & Geometry application to a page, Cartesian axes displays by default.
You can change the appearance of your axes in the following ways:
1. Adjust the length of the axes:
When using Plane Geometry mode with Show Analytic Window, – Select an axis and retype the domain or range labels.
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Select an axis and drag to increase or decrease the numbers
on the scale and tic mark spacing.
The aspect ratio of the axes is retained. To modify the scale of only one axis, press the Shift key as you adjust the value or drag the line.
Default range and domain
Extended domain
2. Use the Zoom tool options to adjust the view.
3. Adjust the end style of the axes using the Attributes tool. Display the Attributes tool by:
selecting it from the menu or
right clicking on an axis between two tic marks. Press the left and right arrow keys to display the desired end style.
The attributes list for the axes also enables you to select a Zoom option.
4. Adjust the axes scale and tic mark spacing manually.
a) Click and hold one tic mark, and move it on the axis. The
spacing and number of tic marks increases (or decreases) on both axes.
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