Chain Mode; Algebraic Mode - HP 20B User Manual

Chain Mode

Calculations in Chain mode are interpreted in the order in which they are entered. For example, entering the following
numbers and operations as written from left to right
Note: if you press an operator key,
displayed value.
In Chain mode, if you wish to override the left to right order of entry, use parentheses
For example, to calculate
multiplication operation. See Table 2-1 below.
Table 2-1 Simple Arithmetic Calculations in Chain Mode
Keys
1+
(2*3)
=

Algebraic Mode

To set the calculator in Algebraic mode, refer to the section titled, The Mode Menu: Setting Preferences in Chapter 1 .
In Algebraic mode, multiplication and division have a higher priority than addition and subtraction. For example, in Algebraic
1+2*3=
mode, pressing
of 9.00.
In Algebraic mode, operations between two numbers have the following priority:
Highest priority: the power function (y

Second priority: combinations and permutations

Third priority: multiplication and division

Lowest priority: addition and subtraction

Figure 2 Calculation in Chain Mode
+-*/
 
 
, you may enter the problem as written from left to right, with parentheses to prioritize the
1 2 3
Display
returns a result of 7.00 . In Chain mode, the same key presses return a result
x
)
1+2*3=
=
, after , the calculation is continued using the currently
Description
Sets operational priority, inputs numbers, and
multiplies 2 and 3.
Adds 1 to 6 and returns 7.00 on the bottom line as
the final result.
17
Mathematical Calculations
returns 9 . See Figure 2.
()
to prioritize operations.