Some TI-84-style calculators include finance-related tools for loans, savings and annuities. This page explains the concepts students usually need for business math or personal finance classes.
Main finance variables
Common variables include N for number of periods, I% for interest rate, PV for present value, PMT for payment and FV for future value.
The sign of cash flows matters. Money paid out and money received may need opposite signs depending on the calculator convention.
Loans
Loan problems often ask for payment, interest rate or remaining balance. Enter the known values carefully and solve for the missing variable.
Use the same time unit for rate and periods. Monthly payments require monthly periods and usually a monthly rate derived from an annual rate.
Savings and future value
Future value problems estimate how savings grow over time with interest and regular contributions.
Check whether payments happen at the beginning or end of each period. That timing changes the result.
Present value
Present value converts future money into today’s value using an interest or discount rate.
This is common in finance, investments and business math.
Classroom caution
Finance menus vary by calculator version and class requirements. Use this page as a concept guide and follow your teacher’s exact menu instructions.
For real financial decisions, verify calculations with reliable financial tools and professional advice.
Quick reference table
| Variable | Meaning |
|---|---|
| N | Number of periods |
| I% | Interest rate per year or period depending on setup |
| PV | Present value |
| PMT | Regular payment |
| FV | Future value |
| P/Y | Payments per year |
| C/Y | Compounding periods per year |