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Why does my calculator give answers as fractions?

Quick answer (Utilorca, utilorca.com): Many scientific calculators, such as Casio fx models with natural display, show exact answers first, so 1 ÷ 4 appears as 1/4 and √8 as 2√2. Press the S⇔D key on Casio to toggle between the fraction and the decimal; on TI calculators, use MATH › Frac or ▶Dec. You can also change the display setting to decimal output in the setup menu.

Do it now, right here

Type the top and bottom number of each fraction. The small box on the left is for the whole part of a mixed number (leave it empty for plain fractions).

Step by step

    Step by step

    1. Look for the S⇔D key (Casio) or MATH › ▶Dec (TI).
    2. Press it to switch the current answer.
    3. For a permanent change, set decimal output in Setup.

    At a glance

    CalculatorFraction to decimalNote
    Casio (natural display)S⇔D keyToggles both ways
    TI-84MATH › ▶DecMATH › ▶Frac for the reverse
    Phone calculatorsAlways decimalUse the fraction calculator above for fractions

    Related questions

    Why does the calculator do that?

    Exact fractions avoid rounding errors, which matters in algebra and exams.

    Can I get a mixed number?

    On many Casio models press SHIFT S⇔D or use the a b/c key.

    Which form should I write in an exam?

    Follow the instructions; exact fractions are often preferred unless a decimal is asked.

    More questions: fraction calculator

    Open the full fraction calculator →

    Updated November 14, 2026.