The student might wish to re-read the above two sentences with emphasis on the emphasized portions. It might be advisable to point out again - DO NOT , under any circumstances, add the exponents. Generally speaking, you can simply enter the numbers into the calculator and let the calculator keep track of where the decimal portion is. However, you must then round off the answer to the correct number of significant figures. Lastly, be warned about using the calculator.
Students often push buttons without understanding the math behind what they are doing.
As if the calculator is to blame for the wrong answer. Remember, it is your brain that must be in charge and it is you that will get the points deducted for poor work, not the calculator. Try these two problems. Here are the answers .