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IB Maths Calculator

Free online calculators for IB Mathematics. Covers both AA (Analysis & Approaches) and AI (Applications & Interpretation) at Standard and Higher Level.

AA: Analysis & Approaches

Paper 1 is non-calculator. Paper 2 (and HL Paper 3) require a GDC (Graphic Display Calculator). CAS functionality is prohibited.

Malpractice Warning

Using a calculator on AA Paper 1 is malpractice. The consequence is no grade awarded for the subject.

  • Paper 1: No calculator
  • Paper 2: GDC required
  • Paper 3 (HL only): GDC required

AI: Applications & Interpretation

A GDC (Graphic Display Calculator) is allowed on all papers. CAS functionality is prohibited.

  • All papers: GDC permitted
  • CAS functionality is prohibited
  • Check approved models with your coordinator

AA Calculators

Analysis & Approaches focuses on calculus, algebra, and trigonometry. These calculators cover key Paper 2 and Paper 3 topics where your GDC is permitted.

AI Calculators

Applications & Interpretation focuses on statistics, modelling, and real-world problems. A calculator is permitted on all AI papers.

Worked Examples

Practice with these IB-style questions covering both AA and AI courses. Each example shows the full working and links to the relevant calculator.

1

Derivative (AA SL)

standard level

Problem:

Find f'(x) where f(x) = 3x⁴ − 2x² + 5x − 1

Solution:

Apply the power rule to each term: d/dx(3x⁴) = 12x³, d/dx(−2x²) = −4x, d/dx(5x) = 5, d/dx(−1) = 0. Therefore f'(x) = 12x³ − 4x + 5.

Answer: f'(x) = 12x³ − 4x + 5

Try this with the Derivative Calculator
2

Normal Distribution (AI SL)

standard level

Problem:

Heights are normally distributed with mean 170 cm and standard deviation 8 cm. Find the probability that a randomly selected person is taller than 178 cm.

Solution:

Standardise: z = (178 − 170) / 8 = 1. Using the standard normal table, P(Z > 1) = 1 − 0.8413 = 0.1587.

Answer: ≈ 15.87%

Try this with the Z-Score Calculator
3

Definite Integral (AA HL)

higher level

Problem:

Find the area under y = x² + 1 between x = 0 and x = 3.

Solution:

∫₀³ (x² + 1) dx = [x³/3 + x]₀³ = (27/3 + 3) − (0 + 0) = 9 + 3 = 12.

Answer: 12 square units

Try this with the Definite Integral Calculator
4

Compound Interest (AI SL)

standard level

Problem:

€5000 is invested at 4.2% per annum compounded annually. Find the value after 6 years.

Solution:

FV = 5000 × (1.042)⁶ = 5000 × 1.2814... = €6407.08 (to nearest cent).

Answer: €6407.08

Try this with the Compound Interest Calculator
5

Geometric Series (AA HL)

higher level

Problem:

Find the sum to infinity of the geometric series 8 + 4 + 2 + 1 + ...

Solution:

Common ratio r = 4/8 = 0.5. Since |r| < 1, the series converges. S∞ = a / (1 − r) = 8 / (1 − 0.5) = 8 / 0.5 = 16.

Answer: S∞ = 16

Try this with the Series Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about IB Maths exams and calculator use.

Can I use a calculator in IB Maths?

It depends on the course and paper. For AA (Analysis & Approaches), Paper 1 is non-calculator and Paper 2 requires a GDC. For AI (Applications & Interpretation), a calculator is allowed on all papers.

What happens if I use a calculator on an AA Paper 1?

Using a calculator on Paper 1 is considered malpractice by the IB. The consequence is no grade being awarded for the subject.

What type of calculator is allowed?

A GDC (Graphic Display Calculator) is required. However, CAS (Computer Algebra System) functionality must be disabled or not present. Check with your school for approved models.

What is the difference between AA and AI?

AA (Analysis & Approaches) focuses on pure mathematics: calculus, algebra, proof, and trigonometry. AI (Applications & Interpretation) focuses on applied mathematics: statistics, modelling, and real-world applications.

When are IB Maths exams?

The main exam session is in May. A November session is available for schools in the Southern Hemisphere.

How many papers are there?

AA SL has 2 papers, AA HL has 3 papers. AI SL has 2 papers, AI HL has 3 papers. Each paper has different time limits and mark allocations.

Other Exam Modes