Civil Engineering Board Exam 2019 Calculator
Approved calculator tool for solving common civil engineering problems as allowed in the 2019 board exams
Calculation Results
Comprehensive Guide: Calculators Allowed for Civil Engineering Board Exam 2019
The Civil Engineering Board Exam is one of the most challenging professional licensure examinations, requiring not just theoretical knowledge but also practical problem-solving skills. The 2019 examination marked an important year where specific calculator policies were implemented to ensure fairness while allowing candidates to perform complex calculations efficiently.
Official Calculator Policies for 2019 Board Exam
According to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the following calculator policies were strictly enforced during the 2019 Civil Engineering Board Exam:
- Allowed Calculator Types: Only non-programmable, non-graphing scientific calculators were permitted. Models like Casio fx-991ES, fx-115ES, fx-570ES, and Texas Instruments TI-30XS were among the approved devices.
- Memory Functions: Calculators with memory functions were allowed, but those with alphanumeric keypads or programming capabilities were strictly prohibited.
- Display Requirements: Single-line or dual-line displays were acceptable, but calculators with graphical displays or those capable of plotting functions were not permitted.
- Physical Inspection: All calculators were subject to inspection by exam proctors before the examination began. Any calculator with suspicious modifications or unauthorized features resulted in immediate confiscation.
- Battery Policy: Candidates were responsible for ensuring their calculators had sufficient battery life. No battery replacements were allowed during the exam.
Why These Calculator Restrictions?
The restrictions on calculator use during the 2019 Civil Engineering Board Exam were implemented for several critical reasons:
- Standardization: Ensuring all candidates have access to the same computational tools creates a level playing field. Advanced programmable calculators could give some candidates an unfair advantage by storing formulas or pre-programmed solutions.
- Academic Integrity: Non-programmable calculators reduce the risk of cheating through stored information or external communication capabilities that might be present in more advanced models.
- Focus on Fundamentals: The exam is designed to test a candidate’s understanding of civil engineering principles rather than their ability to program complex calculations. The approved calculators allow for necessary computations without providing shortcuts to problem-solving.
- Security Concerns: Programmable calculators could potentially be used to store and transmit exam questions or answers, compromising the integrity of the examination process.
- Industry Relevance: The approved calculator types reflect what civil engineers typically use in professional practice for field calculations and quick verifications.
Comparison of Approved vs. Prohibited Calculators
| Feature | Approved Calculators (2019) | Prohibited Calculators |
|---|---|---|
| Programmability | Non-programmable | Programmable (TI-84, Casio fx-9860G) |
| Graphing Capability | No graphing functions | Graphing (TI-83, Casio fx-9750G) |
| Display Type | Single or dual-line numeric | Graphical or multi-line displays |
| Memory Functions | Basic memory (M+, M-, MR, MC) | Advanced memory storage or alphanumeric memory |
| Equation Solving | Manual calculation only | Equation solver functions |
| Example Models | Casio fx-991ES, TI-30XS | TI-89, Casio ClassPad, HP 50g |
| Statistical Functions | Basic statistics (mean, std dev) | Advanced statistical analysis or regression |
| Unit Conversion | Manual conversion required | Automatic unit conversion |
Common Civil Engineering Problems Solvable with Approved Calculators
The 2019 Civil Engineering Board Exam covered a wide range of topics where calculators played a crucial role. Here are some typical problems that could be solved using approved calculator models:
1. Structural Engineering
- Beam Deflection Calculations: Using the formula δ = (5wL⁴)/(384EI) for simply supported beams with uniform loads, where candidates needed to compute deflections given load, span, modulus of elasticity, and moment of inertia.
- Column Buckling: Applying Euler’s formula Pcr = (π²EI)/(Lₑ)² to determine critical buckling loads for columns with different end conditions.
- Shear and Moment Diagrams: Calculating reactions, shear forces, and bending moments at various points along beams with different loading conditions.
2. Geotechnical Engineering
- Soil Bearing Capacity: Using Terzaghi’s bearing capacity equation qₐ = cNₖ + γ₁DNₖ + 0.5γ₂BNγ for shallow foundations, requiring calculations of shape, depth, and inclination factors.
- Slope Stability: Applying the factor of safety formula FS = (Resisting Forces)/(Driving Forces) for simple circular failure surfaces.
- Consolidation Settlement: Calculating settlement using S = H * Cc * log₁₀((σ₀’ + Δσ)/σ₀’) for normally consolidated soils.
3. Hydraulics and Water Resources
- Pipe Flow: Using the Darcy-Weisbach equation hf = f(L/D)(v²/2g) to calculate head loss in pipes, requiring iterative calculations for friction factor.
- Open Channel Flow: Applying Manning’s equation V = (1/n)R^(2/3)S^(1/2) for flow velocity in open channels with different roughness coefficients.
- Pump Selection: Calculating required pump head and power using H = (P/γ) + (v²/2g) + z and P = γQH/η equations.
4. Construction Management
- Project Scheduling: Calculating float times and critical path durations using CPM/PERT techniques with forward and backward pass calculations.
- Cost Estimating: Computing unit costs, markups, and contingencies for different construction items.
- Productivity Analysis: Calculating labor and equipment productivity rates based on work output and time measurements.
Recommended Calculator Models for 2019 Exam
Based on the PRC guidelines and feedback from successful examinees, the following calculator models were most commonly used and recommended for the 2019 Civil Engineering Board Exam:
| Model | Brand | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Exam Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| fx-991ES PLUS | Casio | 552 functions, 2-line display, solar + battery | Reliable, widely available, good button layout | Slightly larger than some competitors | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| TI-30XS MultiView | Texas Instruments | 4-line display, MathPrint, statistics | Excellent display, good for statistics | Less common in PH, slightly more expensive | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| fx-115ES PLUS | Casio | 280 functions, 2-line display, solar | Compact, reliable, good for basic calculations | Fewer functions than fx-991 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| fx-570ES PLUS | Casio | 417 functions, 2-line display, solar | Good balance of features and size | Middle ground between fx-115 and fx-991 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| MS-20UC | Casio | Basic scientific, 240 functions, solar | Very affordable, simple to use | Limited advanced functions | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Calculator Techniques for Faster Problem Solving
Mastering your calculator can save valuable time during the exam. Here are some advanced techniques that successful 2019 examinees used:
- Memory Functions:
- Use M+ to accumulate intermediate results (e.g., summing moments)
- Store frequently used constants (like π or g) in memory
- Use MR to recall values when working through multi-step problems
- Parentheses and Order of Operations:
- Master the use of parentheses for complex formulas
- Break down equations into logical groups
- Example: For E = (P/L)(L³/3EI), calculate L³ first, store in memory, then proceed
- Unit Conversions:
- Practice quick conversions between units (kN to N, mm to m)
- Use the calculator’s exponent function for scientific notation
- Example: 1 kN/m = 1000 N/m (use ×10³ function)
- Trigonometric Functions:
- Ensure your calculator is in the correct mode (DEG for degrees, RAD for radians)
- Use inverse functions (sin⁻¹, cos⁻¹) for angle calculations in surveying problems
- Practice calculating slopes and angles using rise/run
- Statistical Functions:
- Use the mean and standard deviation functions for quality control problems
- Calculate sample sizes and confidence intervals for construction materials testing
- Iterative Calculations:
- For problems requiring trial-and-error (like Manning’s equation), use the calculator’s “Ans” key to repeat the last calculation with slight variations
- Store intermediate results to avoid re-entering long numbers
- Fraction Calculations:
- Practice working with fractions for construction measurements
- Use the a b/c key for mixed numbers in dimension problems
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Calculators
Even with the best calculator, simple mistakes can lead to wrong answers. Here are the most common pitfalls from the 2019 exam:
- Unit Inconsistency: Mixing units (e.g., using meters in one part of a calculation and millimeters in another) without proper conversion. Always convert all units to a consistent system before starting calculations.
- Mode Errors: Forgetting to switch between DEG and RAD modes for trigonometric functions, leading to completely wrong angle calculations.
- Parentheses Errors: Misplacing or forgetting parentheses in complex formulas, which changes the order of operations and results in incorrect answers.
- Memory Misuse: Accidentally overwriting memory values or forgetting to clear memory between problems, causing carry-over of incorrect values.
- Sign Errors: Forgetting to account for negative values in equations (especially in moment calculations where clockwise vs. counter-clockwise matters).
- Rounding Errors: Rounding intermediate results too early in multi-step calculations, leading to accumulated errors in the final answer.
- Display Interpretation: Misreading the calculator display, especially with small decimal points or when using scientific notation.
- Battery Issues: Having the calculator turn off during the exam due to low battery, losing all memory contents.
- Unfamiliar Functions: Trying to use advanced functions during the exam that weren’t practiced beforehand, leading to confusion and wasted time.
- Over-reliance: Spending too much time on calculator operations instead of understanding the problem’s conceptual requirements.
Preparing Your Calculator for Exam Day
Proper preparation of your calculator can prevent stress and technical issues during the exam. Follow this checklist based on 2019 examinees’ experiences:
- Check PRC Approval: Verify that your calculator model is on the approved list well before exam day. The PRC occasionally updates its list of permitted models.
- Practice Extensively: Use your calculator for all practice problems to build muscle memory. Time yourself to ensure you can perform calculations quickly under exam conditions.
- Replace Batteries: Install fresh batteries even if your calculator is solar-powered. Bring a spare battery if your model allows for replacement.
- Clean the Calculator: Remove any dust or debris from the buttons and display. Test all buttons to ensure they register properly.
- Reset to Default: Reset your calculator to factory defaults to clear any stored programs or settings that might be prohibited.
- Prepare a Backup: If possible, have an identical backup calculator in case of malfunction. Both should be inspected by PRC staff before the exam.
- Label Your Calculator: Write your name on your calculator with a small sticker or permanent marker to prevent mix-ups during inspection.
- Know the Inspection Process: Be prepared to demonstrate that your calculator has no prohibited functions if asked by proctors.
- Bring Instructions: If your calculator has complex functions you might forget, write down the key sequences on a separate sheet to review before the exam (though you can’t bring this into the testing room).
- Test Under Exam Conditions: Practice using your calculator in a timed setting similar to the actual exam to build confidence.
Post-2019 Calculator Policy Developments
Since the 2019 examinations, there have been some developments in calculator policies for civil engineering board exams:
- Digital Calculators: There has been discussion about allowing certain digital calculators with locked-down functions, though as of 2023, traditional scientific calculators remain the standard.
- Graphing Calculator Pilots: Some engineering programs have experimented with allowing limited graphing calculator use in classroom settings, but this hasn’t been adopted for board exams.
- Enhanced Inspection: New procedures including random calculator testing during exams have been implemented to detect modified or prohibited devices.
- Model-Specific Guidelines: The PRC now publishes more detailed specifications about allowed calculator features, including maximum display lines and memory capacity.
- International Standards Alignment: There’s a trend toward aligning calculator policies with international engineering licensure standards, particularly for exams with global recognition.
Alternative Calculation Methods
While calculators are essential, developing alternative calculation skills can be valuable when:
- Your calculator malfunctions during the exam
- You need to verify calculator results quickly
- You encounter problems where estimation is sufficient
Some useful techniques include:
- Logarithmic Calculations: Using log tables or slide rule techniques for multiplication/division of large numbers.
- Approximation Methods: Developing skills to estimate answers within 10-15% accuracy for multiple-choice questions.
- Graphical Solutions: Sketching quick graphs to visualize relationships between variables.
- Dimensional Analysis: Using unit analysis to check the reasonableness of answers.
- Mental Math Shortcuts: Memorizing common conversions (1 m³ = 1000 L, 1 kN ≈ 100 kg force).
- Geometric Properties: Memorizing common section properties (I, S for standard shapes).
- Rule of Mixtures: Quick estimation for concrete mix proportions.
Final Preparation Tips for Calculator Use
As you prepare for your civil engineering board exam, keep these calculator-specific tips in mind:
- Create a Calculator Cheat Sheet: Make a personal reference sheet with:
- Key sequences for complex operations you might forget
- Common constants (π, g, conversion factors)
- Frequently used formulas with variable explanations
- Practice Under Time Pressure: Simulate exam conditions by:
- Setting strict time limits for practice problems
- Using only your approved calculator
- Working through problems without external help
- Develop a Calculation Strategy:
- Decide in advance how you’ll approach different problem types
- Determine when to use memory functions vs. writing down intermediate results
- Plan how you’ll verify your answers
- Learn from Past Exams:
- Review previous exam questions to identify calculation patterns
- Note which problems are calculator-intensive vs. conceptual
- Identify where candidates commonly make calculation errors
- Maintain Calculator Proficiency:
- Regularly practice calculations even for conceptual topics
- Challenge yourself with complex, multi-step problems
- Time yourself to build speed and accuracy