Calculator errors are normal. The key is to read the message, identify the input that caused it, and fix the underlying issue. This page lists common errors and practical fixes.
Syntax Error
A syntax error means the calculator cannot understand the expression. Common causes include missing parentheses, two operators in a row, incomplete functions and incorrect negative signs.
Move the cursor to the highlighted area if the calculator shows one, then check the nearby symbols.
Dim Mismatch
A dimension mismatch usually happens when lists or matrices do not have compatible sizes.
For statistics, check that L1 and L2 have the same number of values. For matrices, check rows and columns.
Domain Error
A domain error means the input is outside what a function accepts, such as square root of a negative number in Real mode or log of a nonpositive value.
Check the mathematical domain before changing settings. In some cases complex mode is appropriate; in others, the input is simply invalid.
Invalid Dim
Invalid dimension often appears during graphing when stat plots are active or list dimensions are wrong.
Turn off stat plots, clear old lists, or fix list lengths before graphing again.
Window Range problems
Window range errors happen when graph window values do not make sense, such as Xmin greater than Xmax or scales set to zero.
Reset to a standard window or manually set Xmin < Xmax, Ymin < Ymax and positive scale values.
Quick reference table
| Error | Likely cause | Quick fix |
|---|---|---|
| Syntax Error | Expression typed incorrectly | Check parentheses, operators and negative signs |
| Dim Mismatch | Lists or matrices have incompatible sizes | Match list lengths or matrix dimensions |
| Domain Error | Input outside allowed range | Check square roots, logs, trig inverse inputs |
| Invalid Dim | Stat plot or list dimension issue | Turn off stat plots or fix lists |
| Window Range | Bad graph window settings | Reset or correct min/max/scale values |