iPad Calculator App Explained: How to Use Math Notes, Convert Units, and More

After nearly 15 years, Apple has finally added a native Calculator app to the iPad. At first glance, it may look like a larger version of the iPhone’s Calculator, and in some ways it is, but the iPad version takes full advantage of the bigger screen. It offers quick access to basic, scientific, and handwritten calculations through Apple Pencil support.

If you’ve just updated to iPadOS 18 or later, exploring everything the new Calculator app can do might feel a little overwhelming. This guide walks you through every feature and shows you exactly how to use the Calculator app on iPad.

Everything You Can Do in the Calculator App on iPad

Apple’s new iPad Calculator app includes several useful tools for solving equations, graphing, and unit conversions. Here’s a closer look at what you can do.

Basic Calculations

The Calculator app handles standard operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with ease. You can now see a mini history of your recent calculations right above the result, which makes it easier to track your work.

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Made a mistake while typing? Tap the delete button to remove the last digit—just like on the iPhone Calculator.

Scientific Calculations

To access the scientific calculator on iPad, tap the calculator icon in the bottom-left corner and select Scientific.

This mode gives you access to advanced functions such as sine (sin), cosine (cos), tangent (tan), logarithms (log and ln), exponents (eˣ), and square roots (√). It’s ideal for students, engineers, or anyone who regularly deals with complex equations.

View Calculation History

The iPad Calculator app now includes a View History feature. Unlike the iPhone, which used to show only your current session, the iPad version saves your full calculation history. You can scroll back through older results and delete any entries you no longer need.

Math Notes: The Standout Feature

Math Notes is the highlight of the iPad Calculator app. It lets you write math problems directly on the screen using your Apple Pencil or finger and get instant results.

Simply jot down an equation (for example, “5 + 3 =”) and the answer appears automatically. If you modify the equation, the answer updates in real time. You can also create graphs from written equations such as “y = x + 2.” When prompted, tap Insert Graph and the app will plot it for you.

It’s an intuitive way to visualize and experiment with math, especially for students or anyone who prefers a handwritten workflow.

Convert Length, Weight, Currency, and More

The Calculator app also includes a powerful unit converter. You can switch between units of currency, length, weight, temperature, time, angle, area, and speed.

Just select your preferred unit, type the number, and the app converts it instantly. This feature is especially handy for quick currency conversions while traveling.

How to Use the Calculator App on iPad

Now that you know what the app can do, here’s how to use each feature step by step.

How to Use Math Notes on iPad

1. Tap the Calculator button, then select the Math Notes option in the pop-up menu to access the Math Notes screen.
   
   
2. Here, use the Apple Pencil or your finger to scribble down a mathematical problem. Let’s say, for instance, you write 5+3. Now, as soon as you draw the equals to sign next to it, you’ll see the answer on your screen.
   
   
3. Another interesting thing is that you can make changes to the equation, and the app will update the result in real-time. For example, I could add a divide by two beneath the original equation, and the app would update the answer.
   
   
4. You can even add a square root symbol, and the Calculator app will update the result seamlessly.
   
   

Another thing that I personally liked the most about the new app is that it can also draw graphs for you. Here’s how:

1. If you write, let’s say, y=x+2, the app will ask if you want to insert a graph.
   
   
2. Simply tap the Insert Graph button that appears, and the Calculator will draw the graph using the equation you scribbled.
   
   

Use the Convert Tool in the iPad Calculator App

1. With the Calculator app open, tap the calculator icon in the bottom-left corner.
2. Next, toggle on Convert in the pop-up menu that appears.
   
   
3. Now, you’ll notice that the convert tool is set to convert currency by default. You can tap on Currency and then choose a different currency or a different parameter, based on what you want to convert.
   
   
4. Once done, enter the number you want to convert, and you’ll get the result instantly.
   
   
5. You can also switch between the two parameters by tapping the up-down arrow button (↑↓) on the left.
   
   

How to View or Delete Calculator History on iPhone and iPad

1. Open the Calculator app.
2. Tap the menu (three horizontal dots along with lines) button in the top-right corner, and your current day’s history will appear.
   
   
3. To delete the history, tap on Edit, select the history you want to delete, then hit Delete.
4. Alternatively, you can delete the entire calculator history by tapping Delete All.
   
   

Video: All-New Calculator and Math Notes Apps on iPad

Summing Up…

The new Calculator app on iPad is more than just a tool for basic math. Its combination of touch and Apple Pencil support makes it a smart, flexible workspace for solving problems, visualizing equations, and converting units.

Whether you’re a student, teacher, or professional, the app’s clean design and real-time feedback make it a practical addition to your daily workflow. Plus, since most features are mirrored on the iPhone Calculator app, you can easily switch between devices without missing a beat.

If you have any questions about using the Calculator app on iPad, drop them in the comments below, we’re happy to help.

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