
Mathematics can be a breeze, particularly when your iPhone or iPad handles the calculations for you. Integrated into iOS is an advanced scientific calculator designed to tackle intricate mathematical problems quickly. Plus, with the innovative Math Notes feature, capturing calculations and obtaining instant results is now easier than ever. Here’s how you can leverage these powerful tools on your Apple devices.
How to Use the Scientific Calculator on iOS
Following the release of iOS 18, Apple has improved the Calculator app, allowing users to switch seamlessly between the standard and scientific modes. Additionally, this enhanced functionality is now available on iPadOS 18, expanding accessibility for users across devices.
To access the scientific calculator, open the Calculator app on your iPhone and locate the new calculator icon in the last row.

Tap the icon and choose Scientific to reveal the advanced calculator features. This mode is available in both portrait and landscape orientations.


With the scientific calculator, you can utilize a variety of features ideal for solving complex equations, including:
- Storing and recalling values
- Accessing exponential functions
- Utilizing logarithmic functions
- Working with trigonometric and hyperbolic functions
- Switching between radians and degrees
- Generating random numbers between 0 and 1
This latest version enhances usability by displaying the full equation as you input it, with the solution appearing directly below when you tap the equal (=) button. This feature ensures clarity in understanding which calculation corresponds with its solution.
For lengthy calculations involving multiple steps, recalling previous operations is vital. You can access your calculation history by tapping the menu icon located in the upper left corner.

From there, simply select any previous calculation to reinsert it instantly into your current work.
Enhance Your Problem Solving with Math Notes
Another remarkable feature available within the Calculator app is Math Notes. While this tool is especially beneficial for iPad users with styluses, iPhone users can also use their fingers to jot down calculations. Whether you are a student or working on a professional project, Math Notes provides an excellent resource for enhancing your mathematical tasks.
To start using Math Notes, write down your equation and draw the equal sign; the answer will appear immediately.

On the next screen, click the new note symbol located in the bottom right corner.

Select the pencil icon to choose a drawing tool or the Aa icon to enter equations with your virtual keyboard. Begin writing or typing your mathematical expression.

Performing Basic Calculations
Math Notes allows you to execute straightforward arithmetic calculations such as 16×72 or (10+60)4. Drawing the equal (=) sign will provide the resultant answer instantly.

Alternatively, you can stack numbers and draw a horizontal line underneath to perform addition, or put different symbols beside each number for varying calculations.

If results do not appear after you draw or input using the keyboard and tap the equal button, you can tap the three dots in the upper-right corner and select Math Results.

Ensure Insert Results is checked to display outcomes accordingly.

Solving Equations with Ease
With Math Notes, you can efficiently find solutions to simple equations, including square root calculations like the square root of 106. The tool also supports fundamental trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions, as well as essential calculus operations.

In case of any mistakes while writing, you can hit Done to complete your input. Then, long-press the segment you wish to delete; a context menu will appear above the selected text. Choose the portion to remove and click Delete.

Activate the pen again to continue your calculations, and the results will update in real time. For keyboard users, simply tap next to the digit you want to modify to reposition the cursor and make necessary changes.
Utilizing Variables and Inserting Graphs
Math Notes allows the use of variables within your expressions. You can define a variable by entering a letter or term followed by an equal sign and the desired expression or value. To incorporate the variable, reference its designation in your equations.
Be mindful that Math Notes reads your input from the top left to bottom right; therefore, variables must be declared beforehand.

Moreover, the app can generate visual graphs directly from your equations. When you input an equation that includes variables, a pop-up panel will prompt you with the Insert Graph option.

Simply tap it to enhance your notes with graphical representations.

Making Quick Conversions
The Math Notes feature also supports various conversions. Simply type something like 60lbs= to receive an instant conversion.

This versatile function allows for conversions across numerous unit categories, such as angles, area, force, fuel, length, pressure, speed, temperature, volume, weight, and much more. Additionally, Math Notes facilitates currency conversions, defaulting to those commonly used in your location.
If you wish to convert to an alternative unit, simply indicate your desired conversion, such as “USD to EUR.”
Seamlessly Sync Your Calculations with the Notes App
Math Notes integrates effortlessly with the Notes app on your iPhone or iPad through iCloud, making it simple to access all your calculations in one place.
Open the Notes app on your iOS device, and navigate to the Math Notes folder to revisit all your previous work.

You can also create a new page in the Notes app and perform additional calculations using the same Math Notes features. If you’re not yet familiar with the Notes app, here are a few extra functionalities you might find useful:
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