Use exact answers unless instructed otherwise. Please do not use decimal numbers unless the question specifically asks for a decimal answer.
In most OMPT questions, answers should be given in exact form, like Fractions (e.g. 3/4), Square roots (e.g. √5), Cube roots, and other exact mathematical expressions. You may lose points if you provide a decimal answer when an exact answer is expected. Always follow the answer format requested in the question.
The on-screen calculator may display results as decimals, but it does not automatically convert decimals into fractions.
If an exact answer is required, we recommend that you calculate manually when possible, simplify expressions yourself, or convert decimal results into exact form before submitting your answer.
This information is also available as part of your practice material in the welcome chapter, under “Getting used to the test software”.
OMPT Calculator
You can solve all OMPT questions using the basic calculator. The numbers are chosen so they can usually be calculated easily by hand.
Calculating powers on the calculator
You can calculate powers such as x⁴ or x⁷ by multiplying the number by itself repeatedly.
Example: 2⁴ : 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 16
Example: 3⁷ : 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3
You will not be asked to calculate very high powers or complicated roots during the test. Numbers are chosen so they can be calculated easily by hand.
Calculating powers of negative numbers
For negative numbers, first calculate the power of the positive number and then determine the sign using the rule:
(-1)ⁿ = 1 if n is even
(-1)ⁿ = -1 if n is odd
Example: (-2)³ : 2³ = 8 ; (-1)³ = -1 Therefore: (-2)³ = -8
Entering multiple roots and fractions
When entering expressions with roots and fractions, use the arrow keys to move out of the current field (such as the denominator or exponent) before continuing.
Example to enter:
(7^(1/3))/3 Press the following keys: [7] [^] [1] [/] [3] [→] [→] [/] [3]
The two → presses are used to exit the fraction 1/3 and exit the exponent field. After that, you can enter /3.
Prepare before your test
We strongly recommend visiting the following pages before your appointment:
Syllabus page – to see which topics are included
Learning assessments page – to practice the skills that will be tested
Both pages can be found on the OMPT website, under "Test takers", "Tests".
These resources will help you understand the expected answer formats and become familiar with the test software before your test.