This article provides information about the use of calculators by students completing PAT Maths 5th Edition.
Important: PAT Maths 5th Edition replaced PAT Maths 4th Edition in January 2026.
Computer Algebra System (CAS) calculators should not be used on any PAT Maths tests.
Some items in PAT Maths 5th Edition tests 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 10 feature an in-test calculator tool. These are items for which a calculator may be particularly helpful or, in fact, required to correctly respond.
PAT Maths 5th Edition does not contain items intended to specifically assess students’ abilities to perform mathematical operations without a calculator. So, while it is possible for students to use the in-test calculator as an aid for items that do not feature the tool, this should not be of concern. The more significant element is whether the student correctly performed the required operation.
Students can familiarise themselves with the in-test calculator tool by completing one of the available practice tests.