Why and when to reset your graphing calculator
A reset clears all your stored programs, lists, and custom settings and returns the calculator to the state it left the factory. You might need this if the calculator is running slowly, if you accidentally deleted something important and want to start fresh, or if you're passing it to someone else and want to wipe your work. A reset does not fix a broken screen or dead battery — it only clears what's stored in memory.
Before you reset, understand that this action is permanent. Any programs you wrote, any data you stored, any custom settings you changed — all of it disappears. If you need to keep anything, photograph the screen or write down the values first. Most graphing calculators do not back up to a computer unless you own special software, so a reset is a one-way trip.
Key Takeaways
- A reset erases all stored programs, lists, and settings but does not fix hardware problems like a cracked screen or dead battery.
- The reset process differs by brand and model — TI, Casio, and HP calculators use different button sequences and menu paths.
- Most graphing calculators require you to hold down a specific key combination or navigate a menu to access the reset option.
- After a reset, your calculator will restart and show the home screen with no stored data, and you may need to reset the date and time.
How to reset a TI-84 Plus or TI-83 Plus
Press 2nd, then + (which is the MEM button). Scroll down to Reset and press Enter. You will see a menu with options like All RAM, Defaults, and All. Choose All RAM if you only want to clear your programs and data but keep the operating system. Choose All if you want a complete factory reset, which also reinstalls the operating system — this takes longer and requires the calculator to restart.
After you select, the calculator will ask you to confirm. Press Enter to proceed. The screen will show a progress bar or a message saying the reset is in progress. Do not turn off the calculator during this time. When the reset finishes, the calculator will restart and show the home screen. You may see a message asking you to set the date and time — follow the prompts to do this, or press Clear to skip.
How to reset a Casio fx-9750GII or similar Casio model
Press Menu to open the main menu. Use the arrow keys to navigate to System (or Settings, depending on your model). Press Enter. Look for an option called Reset or Initialize. Press Enter on that option.
The calculator will ask you to confirm the reset. You may see a choice between Soft Reset (clears data only) and Hard Reset (clears data and restores factory settings). Choose the one you want and press Enter. The calculator will restart. Unlike TI models, Casio calculators usually reset faster and do not ask you to set the date and time afterward.
How to reset an HP Prime or HP 50g
On an HP Prime, press Shift and Home at the same time. This opens the system menu. Look for Reset or Clear Memory. Select it and confirm. The calculator will restart.
On an HP 50g, hold down F3 (the rightmost button in the top row) and press On at the same time. Keep holding F3 until you see a menu asking whether you want to clear memory. Select Yes and press Enter. The reset will complete in a few seconds.
What happens after a reset
Your calculator will restart and display the home screen with no programs, no stored lists, and no custom settings. The display mode will return to default (usually 2 decimal places for most calculators). Any shortcuts or custom menus you created are gone. The calculator is now in the same state as when it came from the factory, except the battery is the one you installed (or the one that was already inside).
If your calculator asks you to set the date and time, do so now — this is normal and does not mean the reset failed. If the calculator does not turn on at all after a reset, or if the screen remains blank, the problem is likely a hardware issue, not a software one. Try replacing the batteries first, and if that does not work, the calculator may need repair.
If you cannot find the reset option
Check the model number on the back of your calculator. It usually starts with letters like TI, Casio, or HP followed by numbers. Search for "[your model number] reset" in a search engine — the manufacturer's website or a calculator manual site will show you the exact steps for your specific model. Calculator menus vary widely, and some older or less common models use different button sequences.
If you have the original manual that came with the calculator, the reset instructions are usually in the back under "Troubleshooting" or "System Settings". If you no longer have the manual, most manufacturers post them online as PDF files you can read for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will resetting my calculator delete the operating system?
It depends on the reset type. A soft reset or "clear RAM" clears your data but leaves the operating system intact. A hard reset or "all" reset clears everything and reinstalls the operating system. On most TI calculators, you choose which one you want. On Casio and HP models, the reset option usually clears data only unless you specifically choose a factory reset.
Can I undo a reset?
No. A reset is permanent and cannot be undone. If you need to keep any programs or data, write them down or take photos before you reset. Some calculators can connect to a computer with special software to back up data, but this requires additional equipment and software that does not come with the calculator.
How long does a reset take?
Most resets take between 10 and 30 seconds. A full factory reset on a TI calculator may take a minute or two because it reinstalls the operating system. Do not turn off the calculator during the reset — wait until you see the home screen and the calculator is responsive again.
My calculator is frozen and will not respond to button presses. Will a reset fix it?
If the calculator is completely frozen, you may not be able to access the reset menu. Try removing the batteries for 30 seconds, then reinstalling them — this forces the calculator to restart without erasing data. If that does not work, the calculator may have a hardware problem that a reset cannot fix.
Do I need to reset my calculator before selling or giving it away?
Yes, if you want to remove your programs and data. A reset ensures the new owner receives a calculator with no trace of your work. This is especially important if you stored personal information, notes, or anything you do not want someone else to see.