[Eugenia Gabrielov]

I use a variety of calculators.

TI-89: A phenomenal machine. Not acceptable on ACTs, highschool kids. I personally recommend starting on a TI-83 or a TI-84 before you delve into 89, because it's an incredibly powerful calculator with some stuff that is more user-friendly, but other stuff that's more complicated. High on my recommendation list.

Tip: If you're new to TI's...you might have a lot of fun with the graphing interface. Lots of options, so get to know it well.

TI-84+: This is an awesome calculator. I am more comfortable with it than my TI-89, just because I like the layout a bit better and some of the functionality. It's suitable for ACTs which is a plus, and it serves as my "at-home" calculator. It is EXTREMELY user-friendly, but powerful.

Tip: This is a great backup calculator. There's not much I can specifically say on tips, it's just very functional.

TI-83, TI-86: I don't really use these two anymore. Neither tops off the 89 or 84 in anything. It's a nice beginning, and a bit less expensive, but the power isn't up to par with 84 or 89.

Tip: If you're not used to TI's it's a decently cheap place to start (relative to 89)