Are Scientific Calculators Allowed in ESE Main Examination?

The Engineering Services Examination (ESE) main is a critical component of the recruitment process for engineers in the Indian government. One question that often arises is whether scientific calculators are permitted during the exam. The answer is generally yes, with a few important caveats. However, candidates are advised to consult the official guidelines or notifications from the exam conducting authority for any specific rules, as policies can change from year to year.

Official Guidelines and Policies

According to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the official body conducting the ESE, the use of scientific calculators in the main examination is allowed. However, it is crucial to note that these calculators must be of a non-programmable type. This means that calculators with memory or programmable features are not permitted. The allowed calculators are typically those of the non-programmable variety, such as the Casio 991ES, 991MS, and similar models.

Popular Recommended Models

Among the non-programmable scientific calculators, the Casio fx-991ES PLUS is highly recommended. It is user-friendly and meets all the requirements specified by the UPSC. This calculator is widely used and trusted by candidates and previous participants in the ESE main examination.

Usage in Mains vs Prelims

It is important to differentiate between the prelims and mains sections of the ESE. While programmable calculators are not allowed in the preliminary examination, they are permitted in the mains. In the mains, the use of scientific calculators can significantly aid in solving complex numerical problems, which often form a part of the exam.

Why a Scientific Calculator is Useful

The ESE main examination involves extensive and often time-sensitive calculations. The inclusion of scientific calculators ensures that candidates can efficiently handle these calculations, thereby focusing on demonstrating their understanding of the concepts rather than getting bogged down by complex arithmetic. For instance, the Casio 991ES PLUS can handle a wide range of mathematical operations, including but not limited to logarithms, trigonometric functions, and statistical calculations.

Conclusion

In summary, scientific calculators are permitted in the ESE main examination as long as they are non-programmable. Candidates are advised to familiarize themselves with the guidelines provided by the UPSC and to use calculators that meet these specifications. The use of a reliable, non-programmable scientific calculator, such as the Casio fx-991ES PLUS, can be immensely beneficial in tackling the numerical challenges of the exam effectively.