Changing the operating mode of HP 10bII+

1. The problem:

The calculator has two operating modes:

 Chain, the default.

 Algebraic, which follows the conventions for order of operations, as observed by:- Excel,
Windows 7 and Windows 8 ‘Accessories’ calculator, ‘R’ software, Texas graphics
calculators (eg, TI-84 Plus), …

Consider, for example, the sequence of keystrokes: 2+3×4

These are interpreted in

 Chain mode as (2+3) × 4 giving the answer 5 × 4 = 20

Any operation acts immediately on the displayed number.

That is, when you press an operation key, eg ×, it is as if you had pressed = ×.

So, the standard (BODMAS) order of operations is ignored.

 Algebraic mode as 2 + (3 × 4) giving the answer 2 + 12 = 14

2. What you need to do:

 View the current mode, press

 To change between modes, press

 IMPORTANT: Once a mode is selected, it remains in force until the alternative mode is
selected. However, note that resetting the calculator places it in its default mode:
Chain. Resetting will occur when the batteries are removed or replaced.
Whenever you reset or change the batteries, remember to manually change
the operation mode.