The TI-84-style keyboard looks dense at first because many keys have two or three meanings. The main label is the normal key. The blue or green labels are usually reached with 2nd or ALPHA. This guide explains the keys students use most often.
The 2nd key
The 2nd key accesses the secondary function printed above many keys. For example, a key may have one main label and a second label in a different color.
Press 2nd first, then press the target key. Do not hold it down like a keyboard Shift key; it works as a one-time modifier.
The ALPHA key
The ALPHA key enters letters and certain symbols. It is useful for variables, lists, text labels and some menu shortcuts.
If the calculator seems to type letters when you expect numbers, check whether Alpha lock is active and press ALPHA again to leave that mode.
Graphing keys
The graphing row is central: Y= opens the function editor, WINDOW changes the visible graph range, ZOOM chooses quick zoom presets, TRACE moves along a graph, and GRAPH draws the graph.
A good workflow is: enter the function, set the window, graph, then trace.
Math and statistics keys
The MATH menu contains numeric tools such as fractions, roots and equation-related operations. The STAT menu is used for lists, one-variable statistics, regression and statistical plots.
For data work, enter values through STAT → EDIT, then run calculations from STAT → CALC.
Navigation and editing
Use arrow keys to move through expressions, menus and graph points. DEL deletes at the cursor. CLEAR clears a line, backs out of a menu, or cleans the display depending on context.
If a screen appears frozen, first try CLEAR and then use navigation keys before refreshing the browser.
Quick reference table
| Key | Main use |
|---|---|
| Y= | Enter functions for graphing |
| WINDOW | Set X and Y graph ranges |
| ZOOM | Choose graph zoom presets |
| TRACE | Move along a graph and read coordinates |
| GRAPH | Draw the current functions |
| STAT | Enter lists and run statistical calculations |
| MATH | Access fractions, roots and numeric tools |
| MODE | Change display, angle and graphing settings |
| CLEAR | Clear line or exit a menu |
| ENTER | Evaluate or confirm |