Certain mathematical equations are displayed in either Cartesian coordinates or polar coordinates. Although you can use either, sometimes the equation is simpler when expressed in polar coordinates. To do that with a TI-89 calculator, you need to set the calculator into polar mode, which will then convert your equations automatically. Putting your TI-89 into Polar mode takes a few steps to do, but then your calculations will work out correctly.
Instructions
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1
Place the TI-89 calculator in front of you and hit the "On" button.
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2
Depress the "Mode" button, and look at the display on the TI-86 to see the current settings.
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3
Use the arrow keys to move down to the "Graph" line, which is at the top of the screen. Hit the "Enter" button on the calculator, then use the up and down arrows to select "Polar" mode.