Tips for Precalculus with the TI-89 Calculator

© 2023 October 23, version 5.0, Dr. Wm J. Larson, [email protected], Corrections welcome.

Graphing 4: ZoomDec & 8: ZoomInt set friendly

windows. See the discussion of friendly
To enter an equation to be graphed, key  Y=. windows below.
Type in the equation. 5: ZoomSqr scales x & y the same, so circles
Key F4  to select or deselect an equations. look round, squares look square and lines
Only selected equations are graphed. look.
Key F6 Style to pick the way the graph is 6: ZoomStd sets x & y min = -10, x & y max =
displayed (dotted, thick, etc.). This is useful 10 and x & y scl = 1. If nothing appears
if more than one equation is selected. on the screen, try this first.
If the window is too big (i.e. the graph is a tiny 7: ZoomTrig is useful for graphing trig
unhelpful squiggle) or too little (i.e. the functions. It sets the pixel size = /24 =
important features of the graph are off the 7.5° and xscl = /2 = 90°.
screen), try ZoomStd. If that does not work, 9: ZoomData, for use with scatterplots or
reset the window size with  WINDOW. histograms data, sets xmin & xmax to
Inside  WINDOW: match the data.
xmin & xmax set the values of x on the left A: ZoomFit resizes y to fit the graph.
and right sides of the window, similarly
for ymin & ymax. F2 Zoom can also be accessed from inside 
WINDOW.
xscl (“x scale”) sets the distance between tick
marks on the x-axis, similarly for yscl. Friendly Windows
xres sets pixel resolution; 1 = highest A friendly window is a window where the x
resolution; 10 = lowest resolution; 2 is coordinates of the pixel elements are round
default. The lower the resolution, the numbers, e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, ... or 0.1, 0.2, 0.3,
faster a graph is drawn. See the 0.4, ... This is very helpful when using the
discussion of friendly windows below. Trace feature.
Zoom In  GRAPH, Zoom 4: ZoomDec (decimal) sets
the pixel size to 0.1 and the window
To view the equation’s graph, key  GRAPH. dimensions to -7.9 < x < 7.9, -3.8 < y < 3.8.
Inside  GRAPH, key F2 Zoom to resize the Zoom 8: ZoomInt (integer) sets the pixel
window (i.e. to change the maximum and / or size to 1.0 and allows you to use the arrows
the minimum value of x and / or y that is to move to the center to the part of the graph
displayed). You might want to zoom out so you wish to investigate. (ZoomDec does not
that you can see all of the main features of the allow this option.) If you choose to center the
graph - intercepts, asymptotes, min/max and graph at the origin, the window size is -79 <
behavior as x ± You might want to x < 79, -38 < y < 38.
zoom in so as to precisely determine an x-
intercept or to understand a puzzling behavior But xres determines how many pixels are
of the graph. actually traceable. (Skipping pixels speeds up
the graphing process.) What you actually
Inside  GRAPH F2 Zoom trace is 1, 2, 3, 4, ... or 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, ...
1: ZoomBox zooms in on a box you draw. (for ZoomInt & ZoomDec and respectively)
times xres. If you really want 1, 2, 3, 4, ... or
2: ZoomIn & 3: ZoomOut zoom in & out by 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, ... (normally you do want
the amount you set in C: SetFactors. The that), set xres to 1. The default is 2.
default is 4
 Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 2
The scale set by ZoomInt is often the wrong size, line, depending on whether the inequality was
i.e. you get steps of 1.0, but need steps of actually > or <. (You want to shade above in
0.0001 or maybe 1000, etc. If you need steps our example.) To set the shading in Y=, key F6
of 0.1, then use ZoomDec. But if the region Style 7: Above or 8: Below as needed. There
you want to trace is off the screen, you are are 4 shading patterns which are automatically
out of luck with ZoomDec. It is possible to cycled through. So 4 different inequalities can
develop a formula to calculate the window be displayed. See p. 100.
size to set to solve this problem, but that is
tedious. Here is a trick. In GRAPH set F2 Parametric Graphs
Zoom C: Set factors, set xFact and yFact to To make a parametric graph (p. 115-20) key
10 (or if you prefer a smaller zoom step size MODE Graph = 2: PARAMETRIC. A
to 10 - the default zoom step size is 4). parametric graph is made on the x-y axes by
Select F2 Zoom 8: ZoomInt. Set the center defining x = f(t) & separately y = f(t). Thus in
where you need it. Now Select F2 Zoom 2: parametric mode, you must type in a pair of
ZoomIn twice (or once if you set the zoom equations. E.g. in Y=
factor to 10). Now you have step sizes of 0.1.
xt1 = sin 2t
If you need step sizes of 0.01, repeat, etc.
yt1 = sin 3t
Trace
To view the graph of the above set x & y
Inside  GRAPH, F3 Trace puts a cursor on the min/max = ±1 & use radian mode. You will
graph & displays the coordinates of the cursor. get a pretty Lissajous figure.
The cursor can be moved along the curve with
You must use t (not x, y or z) as your
◄ or ► or by typing an x value and ENTER.
independent variable.
This can be used for finding intercepts or other
solutions to the equation, for reading out data  Window now has (in addition to xmax, yscl,
points in a scatter plot or histogram heights. etc.) tmin, tmax & tstep, which you may need
to set.
Other Tips for Graphing
To change the center of the graph, move the
Polar Graphs
cursor to the desired center and key ENTER. To graph in polar coordinates (p. 121-26) key
To format a graph (rectangular vs. polar, grid MODE Graph = 3: POLAR.
on/off, label axes on/off, etc.) key  or in The Y= screen will now read r1=, etc.
Y=, Window or Graph, key F1 9: Format.
You must use  (not t, x, y or z) as your
To cancel a graph while it is being plotted, key independent variable.  is  (above the ^
ON. key).
The normal graphing mode is MODE Graph = Use ZoomSqr to set the correct proportions or
1: FUNCTION. Use this e.g. to graph y1(x) = do it by hand by setting xmin & xmax to
x². twice ymin & ymax.
You can store a window setting with F2 Zoom  Window now has (in addition to xmax, yscl,
B: Memory 2: ZoomSto. You can recall your etc.) min, max & step, which you may
stored setting with B: Memory 3: ZoomRcl. need to set.
In  GRAPH to find the Minima or Maxima If some functions are selected, they might
of a function use F5 Math 3: Minimum or 4: graph along with your polar graph. To turn
Maximum. You will be prompted to choose an them all off, in Y= key F5 ALL 1: All Off, 3:
x value on each side of the zero. Functions Off or 5: Data Plots Off as needed.
You can depict an inequality (e.g. y > 2x + 3)
on the x-y plane by graphing the inequality as
an equality solved for y (e.g. y1(x) = 2x + 3)
and then shading above or below the graphed
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 3
 | Coordinates  Polar will cause F3 Trace use xmin & xres to set tblStart & tbl, which is
to display the coordinates r & .  | not recommended). Independent = AUTO.
Coordinates  Rectangular will cause F3 ENTER
Trace to display the coordinates x, y &  If you want to choose your own values of x, use
To find the x and y Intercepts Ask. E.g. in  TABLE key F2 Setup,
Independent  Ask, ENTER. Then key in
To find x and y intercepts, graph the equation your x value, ENTER, ▼, then key in another
and zoom in or out with F2 Zoom (or better x value, etc.
by using  Window reset x & y min & max
until the x and y intercepts can be seen on the To change the cell width in TABLE key | or F1
screen). To use the following method the 9: Format
intercepts must appear on the screen. Asymptotes
To find the y-intercept, key F3 Trace, then The TI-89 does not draw asymptotes, but
0, then ENTER. This will move the cursor to because of the way it draws a curve, fake
x = 0, i.e. the y-intercept. The y-intercept will asymptotes sometimes appear. It evaluates y
be displayed in the lower right of the screen. at the center (in x) of each pixel, draws a dot
To find the x-intercept, key F5 Math, then there and connects the dots. Thus where an
2: Zero. You will be asked for the “Lower asymptote should appear, a slightly crooked
Bound?”. Either place the cursor to the left of fake asymptote might be drawn.
the x-intercept with the ◄ key and key If you want to get rid of fake asymptotes, in
ENTER or if you know roughly the value of Y= set the style to dot. Or set the scale so that a
the x-intercept, key in an x value less than pixel element falls on the asymptote. E.g. for y =
the value of the x-intercept. Then you will be 1/(x-1) there is a vertical asymptote at x = 1. F2
asked for the “Upper Bound?” Either place Zoom 4: ZoomDec and  WINDOW xres = 1
the cursor to the right of the x-intercept with will put a pixel element at x = 1 and thus no fake
the ► key and key ENTER or key in an x asymptote will appear.
value greater than the value of the x- If you want to draw an asymptote. If you
intercept. know where an asymptote is, you could key its
Tables equation in - perhaps in a different style and add
it to your graph. Horizontal asymptotes can be
To make a table (p. 210-218), create a function easily keyed in. E.g. a horizontal asymptote at y
in Y=. TABLE produces a table of the = 2 would be graphed as y2(x) = 2.
functions selected in Y =. Depending on the Vertical asymptotes can only be approximated,
MODE setting, this could be functions y1, y2, e.g. for a vertical asymptote at x = 2, use y2(x) =
etc, or parametric functions y1t, x1t, etc, or 10^100(x-2), which is a line which goes through
polar angle , etc. Below I assume you are in the point (2, 0) and has such a steep slope that it
function mode. will appear perfectly vertical.
There is a choice of ways to choose which x Alternatively type y2(x) = when(x<2,-10^100,
values to display. In TABLE SETUP, which 10^100). This draws a horizontal line at -10100
can be accessed with  TblSet or inside for x < 2 and a horizontal line at 10100 for x  2.
TABLE with F2 Setup AUTO table Both are way off screen. What you see is the
automatically generates a series of values for x vertical line connecting these two lines.
or you can choose them yourself with ASK. Alternatively type LineVert 2 in the home
screen, not in Y=. You cannot trace or find
For example key y1(x) = sin x. Deselect any intersections, etc. of a line drawn with LineVert.
previously selected functions. Set the table
parameters with tblStart = -90, tbl = 15 To delete functions, lists, tables,
(assuming you are in degree mode & want a
table of sin x for every 15° starting at -90°). etc.
Graph <-> Table = OFF (unless you want to
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 4
To delete tables, etc. key 2nd VAR-LINK. p. In approx, radian mode + 2i ENTER gives 2
333-41. e0.785 i.
All of your (user defined) variables: tables, In exact, radian mode 5 + i ENTER gives ei
functions, lists, text entries are listed. arctan5/5
3 2.
Highlight the table, etc. you want to delete. Key In approx, polar, degree mode + 2i ENTER
 Enter. gives 2.44924.095.
If you want to delete several variables, select all Etc.
to be deleted with key F4 , then key  Enter
as above. Apparently the TI-89 cannot be commanded to
display in trigonometric form (e.g. 2 cos 45° +
If you want to delete all but a few variables, key 2i sin 45°).
F5 All 1: Select All. Then use F4  to deselect
those tables you do not want to delete. To convert a complex number in polar (i.e.
rei) form to a complex number in standard
By default all user defined variables are placed (i.e. rectangular, i.e. a + bi) form, set the mode
in the MAIN folder unless you specified to complex rectangular with MODE Complex
otherwise. You cannot delete the MAIN folder. Format 2: RECTANGULAR, key in the
complex number in standard form and press
Converting from Rectangular to ENTER. Again the way the result is displayed
Polar Coordinates or Vice Versa depends on what modes you are in. For
To convert from Rectangular to Polar example
Coordinates key [x,y] 2nd MATH 4: Matrix L: In approx mode 2ei/4ENTERgives +
Vector ops 4: ► Polar i.
For example [1, 3)]: ► Polar gives [2  /3] In exact mode 2ei/4ENTER gives + 2i.
To convert from Polar to Rectangular
Coordinates key [r,] 2nd MATH 4: Matrix
The Solve & Zeros commands
L: Vector ops 5: ► Rect To solve an equation key F2 Algebra 1:
solve( in the entry line. E.g. solve(2x + 3 = 7,x)
For example [2,  /3] ► Rect gives [1 3]
gives x = 2. This single line will do about half
The “ ” is 2nd EE. The “,” does not display in of your homework or test problems! If I want
the answer, but it is there. See p. 456, 464. you to do the problem yourself by hand, I will
require you to show your work or I will
Converting Complex Numbers prohibit calculators on part of the test.
from Rectangular Form to Polar Some equations cannot be solved analytically
Form or to Trigonometric Form, (i.e. with algebra), e.g. x = cos x. With a
etc. grapher there are several ways to solve it.

To convert a complex number in standard One way is graphically by plotting y1 = x, y2 =

(i.e. rectangular, i.e. a + bi) form to polar (i.e.. cos x and in  GRAPH find the intersection
r ei) form, set the mode to complex polar with of two functions using F5 Math 5: intersection.
MODE Complex Format 3: POLAR, key in the You will be prompted to choose two functions
complex number in standard form & press and an x value on each side of the intersection.
ENTER. The way the result is displayed Or in the entry line use solve(x = cos(x), x),
depends on what modes you are in. You may giving “x = .739085133”.
need to reset the Exact/Approx mode or the
Or set the equation equal to zero (e.g. x - cosx =
Angle mode (i.e. Degree vs. Radian mode).
0) and in the entry line use zeros(x - cos(x), x),
For example:
giving “x = .739085133”. Zeros is F2 4: zeros(.
In exact, radian mode + 2i ENTER gives 2
Or graph y1 = x - cosx and find the zeros of the
ei/4. graph with F5 Math 2: Zeros. You will be
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 5
prompted to choose an x value on each side of  Solve(x4- 1 = 0, x) will give x = 1 or x = -1,
the zero. For a more detailed explanation of but cSolve(x4- 1 = 0, x) will give x = i or x = -i
how to use the zeros feature, see my Tips for or x = 1 or x = -1.
Beginners.
 To speed up the process, you can also
The above two Zeros functions are different. The include a guess e.g. Solve(x^2 = 2, x = 1.4)
one used in the entry line does not ask for a will give 1.414, although the equation must be
range to search and might not find all zeros. more complicated before the speed-up is
Of all of the above methods, I recommend noticeable.
using intersection in the GRAPH screen, Solving with Complex Numbers
because by looking at the graphs you can
understand what is going on, because if there is cSolve() or cZeros() can be used to find the
more than one intersection you can choose the roots of complex numbers. For example ³i =
one you want and because setting the equation cSolve(x³ = i, x) = cZeros(x³ - i, x) = {-i, -3/2
equal to zero or equal to y involves extra + ½ i, 3/2 + ½ i}
algebra and is therefore not as intuitive.
DeMoivre’s Theorem can be used to display
Either Solve() or Zeros() can be used for most and trace (i.e. read out) the roots of complex
problems. For example Solve(x² - 4 = 0, x) or numbers. For example DeMoivre’s Theorem
Zeros(x² - 4, x) will both give 2 & -2. says that the cube roots of 2i = 2 ei/2 are ³2
There are three Solve() & two Zeros() ei(/2+2k)/3, with k = 0, 1, 2. To graph these
commands: Solve() p. 478-481, Zeros() p. 494, values set the Graph mode to Polar. In Y= key
cSolve() p. 403-405, cZeros() p. 407 and 2^(1/3). In WINDOW set min to the angle of
nSolve() p. 450. the first root (i.e. (the argument of 2i) / n =
(/2)/3 = /6). Set step to 2/n = 2/3. Set the
If you want complex solutions, you must use
window size appropriately, i.e. a little bigger
cSolve() or cZeros(). Solve() or Zeros() or
than ³2 e.g. ±2. Key GRAPH. Key F2 Zoom
nSolve() will give only the real solutions.
5: ZoomSqr (to make the plot “circular”). Key
Solve() is 2nd Math 9: Algebra 1: Solve(). F3 Trace. The first root, 1.091 + .630 i will be
Zeros() is 2nd Math 9: Algebra 4: Zeros(). displayed (as 1.091, .630). Key ► to display
the second root -1.091 + .630 i. Key ► again
nSolve() is 2nd Math 9: Algebra 8: nSolve(). to display the third (& last) root 0 - 1.260 i.
cSolve() is 2nd Math 9: Algebra A: Complex 1: There are at least five possible ways (!) that
cSolve(). the results of cSolve() or cZeros() can be
cZeros() is 2nd Math 9: Algebra A: Complex 3: displayed. E.g. for x² = 4i, i.e. finding the
cZeros(). square roots of 2i, the answer could be
displayed in exact polar radian form ei, e.g.
nSolve looks for only one approximate real
2ei/4 and 2ei/4 or approx polar radian form
solution, but is faster than Solve() or Zeros().
ei, e.g. 2 e 0.785 i and 2e -2.366 i or polar degree
Solve is very powerful. form (r  ), e.g. (2  45) and 2  -135) or
 It can solve symbolic equations, e.g. exact standard form a + b i, e.g.  + 2 i
Solve(ax^2 + b*x + c = 0, x) will give the and -2 - 2 i, or approximate standard form
quadratic formula. a + bi, e.g. 1.414 + 1.414i & -1.414 - 1.414i.
 It can find the intersection of two equations, Apparently the TI-89 cannot be commanded to
e.g. Solve(x^2 + y^2 = 4 and y = x^2, {x, y}) display the results in trigonometric form (e.g. 2
will give (±1.250, 1.562) i.e. the intersections cos 45° + 2i sin 45°).
of the circle and the parabola. (“and” is 2nd Which form is displayed is controlled by 3 (!)
Math 8: Test 8: and.) mode settings. Mode: Complex Format 3:
Polar will always display the result in polar
form.
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 6
Mode: Complex Format 1: Real or 2: Rect will To expand an expression key F2 Algebra 3:
always display the result in standard form. expand( in the entry line. E.g. expand(x +
y)^3) ENTER gives x³ + 3x²y + 3xy² + y³.
Mode: Exact/Approx 2: Exact will always
display the result in Exact form, i.e. ei/4 or Permutations and Combinations
2/2 + 2/2 i, depending on the Complex
Format mode. Combinations are the number of ways of
selecting r objects from n objects where order
Mode: Exact/Approx 3: Approximate will does not count = nCr = n! / r! (n-r)! is also
always display the result in Approximate form,
i.e. e 0.785 i or .707 + .707 i, depending on the written as .
Complex Format mode.
Permutations are the number of ways of
In Angle 1: Radian mode the polar radian form, r selecting r objects from n objects where order
ei, is displayed, i.e. ei/4 . In Angle 2: Degree does count = nPr = n! / (n-r)!
mode the polar degree form, (r  ) i.e. (1 
45), is displayed . nCr is 2nd MATH 7: Probability 3: nCr(
Complex numbers are explained on p. 533-535. P is 2nd MATH 7: Probability 2: nPr(
n r

How to Find the Intersections of Sequences and Series

Two Graphs A sequence is an ordered list of numbers. A
Enter the two equations in Y=. Select them and series is the summation of the terms of a
deselect all other equations. Display them with sequence. They can be calculated using 2nd
 GRAPH. Key F5 Math 5: intersection. You MATH 3: List 1: seq(. (See p. 470, 127-139.)
will be prompted to choose the two functions. Seq takes the parameters (expression, variable
If (as instructed above) you have only selected name, begin, end [, step]). Step is optional, the
the two equations whose intersections you default is 1.
wish to find, press ENTER ENTER. If not, use E.g. to display the first 6 terms of the arithmetic
the up or down arrows to move the cursor to sequence an = 3n + 2, key seq(3x+2, x, 1, 6)
the graphs whose intersections you wish to ENTER which gives {5 8 11 14 17 20}. Note I
find and press ENTER for each graph. Then used “x” rather than “n” as my variable to
you will be prompted to choose an x value on make the keying easier. seq(3x+2, x, 3, 5, ½)
each side of the intersection. In response to ENTER gives {11 25/2 14 31/2 17}.
“Lower Bound?”, you can either key in an x
value less than (left of) the x-coordinate of the To find the sum of a sequence you can use
intersection (If you know the size of your sum(seq( (See p. 483.) or ( (See p. 507.).
screen, you can figure it out.) or you can use The sum &  features are different. Sum just
the left or right arrows to move the cursor to takes a list to sum, for example sum({1, 2, 3})
the left of the intersection. Press ENTER. gives 6. ( takes parameters (expression,
“Lower” is a bit confusing. Remember it variable name, begin, end). E.g. to find the
means “left”, not “below”. In response to sum of the first 4 terms of the geometric
“Upper Bound?”, similarly choose an x-value sequence an = 52n, key sum(seq(5*2x, x, 1, 4)
to the right of the intersection. To move the ENTER or key (5*2x, x, 1, 4) ENTER, either
cursor faster, use 2nd left or right arrow.
of which give 150. Since ( is the same as
Factoring and Expanding sum(seq(, it’s easier to just use (.
To factor an expression key F2 Algebra 2: But ( does not accept a step size, i.e. the step
factor( in the entry line. E.g. factor(x^2 - 5x + size is set to 1. If another step size is needed,
6, x) gives (x-3) (x-2). e.g. for Riemann sums, then you must use
E.g. factor(x³ + 3x²y + 3xy² + y³) ENTER sum(seq(. For example for f(x) = 2x to find f(2)
gives (x + y)^3. + f(2.2) + f(2.4 + ... +f(4), use
sum(seq(2x,x,2,4,.2)), which gives 96.700.
E.g. cfactor(x4-1) gives (x-1) (x+1) (x-i) (x+i)
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 7
Or you can get clever with (. To find the sum If you want to graph several conics, it is faster to
of the n terms of f(x) from x = a to b (i.e. with create a function called conic(x) which contains
step size =x = (b-a)/n use (f(a+xx),x,0,n). the above formula, i.e. in the home screen key
For example for f(x) = 2x to find the sum of the (-(b*x+e)+{1,-1}*((b*x+e)^2-
10 terms f(2) + f(2.2) + f(2.4) + ... +f(4), x = 4*c*(a*x^2+d*x+f))) (2*c)  conic(x), where 
(4-2)/10 = .2, use (22+.2 x, x, 0, n), which, of is the STO button. Note that you must
course, also gives 96.700. explicitly type b*x, not bx, otherwise bx will be
The result can contain symbols, e.g. (x,x,1,n) interpreted as a variable name, not b times x.
ENTER gives n(n+1)/2. Then for each conic just key in the values of A,
B, C, etc.
To find the partial sums of a sequence use
cumSum(. (See p. 405.) E.g. key 2nd MATH 3: For the above example, key 1  A, -4  B, 4
List 7: cumSum(seq(1/x², x, 1, 4)) ENTER  C, 10  D, 0  E and -30  F. Now set
gives {1 5/4 49/36 205/144} y1(x) = conic(x), and graph it.
A sequence graph is will display a sequence. How To Simplify Rational
Set MODE Graph SEQUENCE. Key  Y=.
Enter the formula for the sequence in u1. If an
Functions
initial value is needed, e.g. if a recursive To do long division of one polynomial by
formula for the sequence is entered in u1, enter another, use expand(. For example
the initial value in ui1, otherwise leave it expand((x^2+4x+6)/(x+2), x) gives
blank. E.g. key in u1 = 3n+2. You must use 2/(x+2)+x+2. Expand is F2 Algebra 3: expand(.
“n” as your variable in sequence mode. Key  MODE Split Screen 3 LEFT-RIGHT or 2: TOP-
GRAPH F2 Zoom A: ZoomFit. The axes are n BOTTOM is useful with graphs. Make one
and u1. You can use F3 Trace to read out the screen the graph and use the other screen to
values of u1 (they are called yc). adjust the window and to set the style (dot,
How to graph a Conic Equation thick, etc.) of the graph.

Since a conic equation is not solved for y, it Solving a system of two equations
cannot be directly entered into Y=. But by Solving a system of two equations, i.e. finding
treating x as a constant, a conic can be the intersections(s) of their graphs.
rearranged into a quadratic equation in y. Then
the quadratic formula can be used to solve for y. Solve the 2 equations for y. Graph them
The general form of the conic, Ax2 + Bxy + Cy2 using the  Y= and  GRAPH. If the
+ Dx + Ey + F = 0, can be rearranged to Cy2 + intersection(s) do not appear on the screen,
(Bx + E)y+(Ax2 + Dx + F) = 0. Note that this zoom out (or better by using  Window reset
now has the form of a quadratic in y. Applying x or y min or max until the intersection(s)
the quadratic formula gives can be seen on the screen).

. Key F5 Math 5: intersection. In case you

have other functions displayed on the screen
There is one problem with keying in this besides the ones you want to solve, you will
formula, there is no “±” button. The solution is be prompted with “1st Curve?” and then “2nd
easy, the list {1, -1} is effectively a “±” sign. If Curve?” to choose the two functions whose
you have one conic to graph, key the above intersections you want to find. If the cursor is
formula in for y1= with the letters (A, B, C, etc.) on the correct 1st & 2nd curves, just press
replaced with their values. ENTER to answer each question, otherwise
use the ▲ or ▼ key to move to the correct
For example for x² - 4xy + 4y² + 10x - 30 = 0
curve(s). Or better still, use Y= and then F4
(i.e. A = 1, B = -4, C = 4, D = 10, E = 0, F = -
to uncheck the unneeded curves.
30), key in y1 = (4x+{1,-1}((-4x)^2-
4*4(x^2+10x-30)))(2*4). Then you will be prompted “Lower Bound?”
Use the ◄ key to move the cursor to the left
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 8
of the intersection and key ENTER or if you If the graph has more than 2 pieces, e.g.
know roughly the x-coordinate of the
intersection, key in an x value less than the x- ,
coordinate of the intersection. You will be
prompted “Upper Bound?” Use the ► key to
move the cursor to the right of the you can use nested when functions or a user-
intersection and key ENTER or if you know defined function, see p. 194-95. Unfortunately
roughly the x-coordinate of the intersection, the logic of nested when functions is hard to
key in an x value more than x-coordinate of follow, especially since you have to read it
the intersection. inside the small entry line.
Then the (x, y) coordinate of the intersection It is easier is to enter a piecewise defined
will be displayed at the bottom of the screen. equation as separate equations, then selecting
each with F4 . E.g.:
Define y1(x) = -x | x  0
F4 Other 1: Define can be used to define a
function. E.g. Define xxt(x) = 3x^2. Then y2(x) = 3 - x + x | 0 < x and x  1
xxt(5) ENTER gives 75. Notice that I used y3(x) = x | 1< x
letters available on the keyboard to make
The unexpected “- x + x” term was used to get
typing the name faster. You would have gotten
an x into the expression. Without an x in the
an error message if you had tried to define
expression “y2(x) = 3 |0 < x and x  1” would
xt1(x), because xt1(x) is a system variable.
There is another way to define a function. have drawn a 3 for all x, not just for 0 < x  1.
1cos(x) STO sec(x) defines a new function, The Boolean operator and is 2nd MATH 8: Test
sec(x) which can, for example, be graphed by 8: and or CATALOG and.
entering y1 = sec(x) or evaluated by typing Unfortunately if you want to then graph g(x - 3)
sec() which gives -1. An erroneous set of or if you need a table of g(x) or if you want to
keystrokes can result in defining x & y. This is find values e.g. g(-3), then you need to express
surprisingly easy to do by accident. E.g. if x the function in one entry. If so the g(x) above
has been defined as 2, expand((x+2)²) will give can then be defined using when(test,
16. If something like this happens, F6 Clean expression when test true, expression when test
Up 1: Clear a-z ENTER ENTER will clear (i.e. false).
delete) the definitions of any 1-character
variables, i.e. “x”, but not “xx”. see p. 85, 192 For example can be written as,
If you want to use your newly-defined function,
easier than keying in the letters is copying a y10(x) = when (x > 1, x, x^2).
variable from VAR-LINK. Key 2nd VAR-
LINK. Highlight the variable (e.g. the sec(x) To write , you must use
function created above) ENTER, sec(x) now
appears in the entry line.
nested when(s, For example:
Piecewise-Defined Graph y1(x) = when (x  1, when(0 < x, 3, -x), x) or
To display a piecewise-defined graph, e.g. y1(x) = when (x  0, -x, when(x 1, 3, x))
, Notice the difference in the inequalities used
above and that the -x + x term is no longer
inside Y= key needed.
y1 = when(x > 1, x, else x^2) Once you have defined a function in Y =, you
can use it in the entry line. E.g. with the above
when( is in CATALOG.
definition, y1(-25) evaluates as 25
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 9
To display f(x)={x, x  1, key y1 = when(x  1, e.g. tan x), use the inverse transcendental, e.g.
x, undef). undef means undefined, so it won't tan-1 x. For example solve(y = 2 tan x + 3,x)
draw anything if x > 1. Just type “undef “ in, gives x = {tan-1[(y-3)/2]}/ + @nj. (The j
it’s not in the catalog! stands for an integer. @nj is the name of an
integer constant. If the solution has two
The Inverse constants, they will be named @n1 and @n2.),
To find analytically the inverse of f(x), written i.e., in more standard notation, x = {tan-1[(y-
f-1(x), key solve(y = f(x), x). Then exchange x 3)/2]}/ + k, k = an integer.
and y by hand. Solve( is F2 Algebra 1: solve(. To get the inverse function just drop the + @nj
For example solve(y = 2x + 1, x) gives x = (y- part. So the inverse function is f-1(x) = tan-1[(x-
1)/2. So f -1(x) = (x-1)/2. Solve(y = ln(x), x)
3)/2]/ In this example DrawInv 2 tan x + 3
gives x = ey. So f -1(x) = ex.
or graphing y1 = {tan-1[(x-3)/2]}/ + @nj,
There are several ways to graph the inverse. gives a series of curves, one on top of the
1) You can first find f-1(x) analytically as above other. On the other hand graphing y1 = {tan-1
and then just key it in in Y =. For example y = [(x-3)/2]}/ gives just the one curve of the
x² Solve it for y, i.e. y = ±x. This can be function, called the principal branch.
graphed as y ={1,-1}x. The list {1,-1} is Graphing a Complex Function
effectively a ± symbol.
A complex function, z = x(t) + y(t)i, can be
2) Or use parametric mode: graphed on the complex axis in parametric
xt1 = t mode as xt1 = x(t) and yt1 = y(t). Or if z is not
explicitly written with real and imaginary
yt1 = f(t)
parts, i.e. just as z = f(t), use xt1 = real(f(t))
will produce a graph of f(x). and yt1 = imag(f(t)).
xt2 = yt1(t) Linear Interpolation
yt2 = t If you have a table of data, e.g.:
-1
will produce a graph of f (x). x y = f(x)
4 24.7
For example, xt1 = t, yt1 = t^2, will produce a
5 25.2
graph of y = x², xt2 = yt1(t), yt2 = t, will
6 25.8
produce a graph of x = y², its inverse.
and wish to find a y-value corresponding to an x-
You may need to adjust the values of tMin and value between those x-values in the table,
tMax to allow for the range of y values you assume the (unknown) function y = f(x) is
want. locally linear and use linear interpolation. Use
3) Or type on the command line DrawInv x^2, the following equation, where x1 and x2 bracket
which draws the inverse of y = x².
x.: y = y1 +
All of the above is for the inverse relationship
i.e. where you do not require that the inverse E.g. find f(5.8) = 25.2 + (25.8-25.2)(5.8-5)/(6-5)
be a function. If you want the inverse function = 25.68
and the inverse relationship is not already a Programming
function, it does not work.
To type in a program, key APPS 7: Program
To obtain the graph of the inverse function Editor 7: Program Editor 3: New Type:
use Method 1. If the function did not have an Program. Give it a name, e.g. Variable:
inverse function because it contained a y² term example.
(e.g. y = x² or x² + y² = 1), proceed as in 1
above, but remove the {1, -1}. The lines
:example()
If f(x) contains a transcendental function, (i.e. :Prgm
one which cannot be inverted algebraically, :
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 10
:EndPrgm These can be found in the MATH 1: Number.
then appear automatically. Note the first line is Binary, Hexadecimal & Decimal
the name you assigned to the program.
Decimal means base 10, binary means base 2 &
Type in your program between Prgm and hexadecimal means base 16.
EndPrgm. Key ENTER after you finish each How do you tell the calculator you are entering a
line. When you are done typing the program, binary or hexadecimal number? You type 0b
key HOME. before a binary number & 0h before a
To save on typing key F3 I/O to insert “Disp”, hexadecimal number. For example to enter 7 in
“Input”, “Output”, etc. into your program. binary, key 0b111. To enter 15 in hexadecimal,
key 0hF.
To run the program, type its name in the entry
How do you set the mode of the answer of a
line on the home screen, e.g. example(). Note
calculation? To display your answer in binary,
that the () were not used above when naming
key MODE, Base, 3: BIN. To display your
the program.
answer in hexadecimal key MODE, Base, 2:
Lbl creates a label which the program can later HEX. To display your answer in decimal (i.e. the
jump to with a Goto statement. normal way) key MODE, Base, 1: DEC. You
Input [prompt], variable prints the prompt on can enter the number in any mode, the answer
the screen. After you type in a value for the will be displayed in the chosen mode.
variable and key ENTER, that value is For example in decimal mode 0b111 + 0b1 gives
assigned to the variable. 8. In binary mode 0b111 + 0b1 gives 0b1000. In
hexadecimal mode 0b111 + 0b1 gives 0h8. You
Disp displays the current contents of the must always use the prefixes. For example in
Program I/O screen. hex mode 11 + 3 gives 0hE, i.e. 11 is interpreted
To leave the Program I/O screen, i.e. stop a as decimal.
running program, key F5 PrgmIO or key ON How can you convert a number from one base to
ENTER HOME. another? There are two ways. Firstly you can set
the mode to the desired base and key in the
To Solve a System of Equations number with the correct prefix. For example in
decimal mode 0b111 ENTER gives 7. In hex
To solve a system of three equations and three
mode 15 ENTER gives 0hF.
unknowns key solve(eqn1 and eqn2 and eqn3,
Alternatively you can use the convert base
{var1,var2,var3}).
commands in 2nd MATH D: Base, which are
E.g. to solve x + 4y - z = 6, 3x + 2y + 3z = 16 1:Hex, 2:Bin & 3:Dec. For example,
and 2x - y + z = 3, key solve(x+4y-z=6 and 0b11010Hex gives 0h1A and 0b11010 Dec
3x+2y+3z=16 and 2x-y+z=3,{x,y,z}), which gives 26.
gives x=1 and y=2 and z=3.
Step functions On Line Help
[x] = the greatest integer less than or equal to x TI provides dozens of forums on its TI
= int(. This function is also called floor(. Calculators, for example there are forums
For example, int(3.5) returns 3 and int(-3.5) entitled “TI-89”, “Precalculus”; “Calculus”, etc.
returns -4. Look at links below
If you want the smallest integer greater than or http://education.ti.com/index.html
equal to x, use ceiling(. or
For example, ceiling(1.5) returns 2. ceiling(-1.5) http://education.ti.com/student/
returns -1. TIStudentCenterHome.html
If you want the integer closest to zero, i.e. or
simply removing any fractional part, use http://www-s.ti.com/cgi-bin/discuss/
iPart(. sdbmessage.cgi?
For example, iPart(1.5) returns 1 and iPart(-1.5) databasetoopen=calculators&topicarea=TI-
returns -1. 89/92+Plus&do_2=1
Tips for Beginners for the TI-89 Calculator, page 11