You need technology when an equation has no appropriate analytic approach using the methods available in IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches. This applies on Paper 2, where a graphic display calculator (GDC) is required, but not on Paper 1, where calculators are prohibited.
What Does “No Analytic Approach” Mean?
An analytic approach uses algebraic manipulation to obtain solutions exactly or through a standard mathematical procedure. Examples include factorization, substitution, logarithms and the quadratic formula.
Some equations cannot be rearranged and solved using these familiar methods. For example,
contains the variable both inside an exponential expression and outside it. There is no suitable algebraic method in the AA SL syllabus that isolates , so technology should be used.
A GDC can solve this in two main ways:
- Graph and , then find their intersections.
- Use a numerical equation solver on .
Using a GDC gives and , correct to three significant figures.
| Exam situation | Appropriate response |
|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Use an exact analytic method. Questions will not require a GDC-dependent solution. |
| Paper 2 | Use graphing or a numerical solver when no suitable analytic method exists. |
| “Solve” question | Show the equation entered or the graphs whose intersections were found. |
| “Show that” question | Give mathematical working; these questions do not generally require technology. |
Common Misconception
“No analytic approach” does not necessarily mean that no advanced theoretical formula exists. It means that there is no appropriate analytic method within the course and question context; technology is therefore the intended IB method.
Exam Technique
This is SL 2.10: solving equations graphically and analytically. On Paper 2, write the equation or pair of functions before stating “using GDC” and giving every required solution, normally exactly or to three significant figures unless instructed otherwise. A calculator answer without a visible mathematical set-up may not earn full method marks.