How to Figure Square Root on a Calculator

The square root of a number is the number that, multiplied by itself, equals the original number. For example, the square root of nine is three (since three times three equals nine) and the square root of 100 is 10 (since 10 times 10 equals 100). Figuring out square roots of some numbers by hand can be complicated and tricky since the square roots of most numbers are not whole numbers themselves (for example, the square root of 12 is 3.464102), but your calculator can help by finding square roots for you.

Things You'll Need

• Calculator

Instructions

1. Enter the number you want to find the square root of into your calculator. For example, if you want to know the square root of 25, enter "25" into your calculator.

2. Find the square root button on your calculator. It looks a bit like a V or a check mark whose right line has stretched itself farther up and farther to the right. If you don't see a button with this symbol, look for one that says "Sqrt."

3. Press the square root button on your calculator. The square root of the number you entered in Step 1 should appear. In the example listed, your calculator should now show the number 5 (since 5 is the square root of 25).

Tips & Warnings

• Most basic calculators have a designated square root button. If you're using a scientific calculator, the square root button may be replaced by an alternate function for another button.

References

• Square Root Calculator

Resources

• Squares and Square Roots