Field Guide/Start here/Key conventions
Start here4 min

Know the keys: 2nd, ALPHA and negative

You are learning the keyboard or a correct-looking expression gives a syntax error.

01

Press these keys

2ndALPHA(−)−

Step 1 of 4. Press 2nd.

02

Walkthrough

  1. 1
    Read above a key

    Press 2nd, then the key whose blue label you need.

  2. 2
    Type a letter

    Press ALPHA, then the key carrying that green letter.

  3. 3
    Enter a negative

    Use the dedicated (−) key beside ENTER; use − for subtraction between values.

03

Worked example

Enter −3² and compare it with (−3)².

Answer−3² = −9, while (−3)² = 9.