Write out the bottom number however many times the exponent signifies and multiply them together. As an example, "X^4" would be written as X times X times X times X. Note that "^" signifies "to the power of."
Separate fractions into two separate functions. The numerator still means "to the power of," but the denominator is the root. As an example, X^2/3 means to take the cube-root of X and then square the results.
Invert the bottom number if the exponent is negative. As an example, "X^-2" is the same formula as "1 / X^2."
Use a scientific calculator for complex problems. Enter the bottom number, press the "X^y" or "^" key, and enter the exponent. As an example, "6^2.345" would be solved by entering "6," pressing the "X^y" key, and entering "2.345" to get 66.798.