Sequences Tab

The Sequences tab uses a formula to generate a number pattern.

Entering a Formula
Entering Start and End Values
Generating a Sequence
Generating Multiple Sequences

Entering a Formula

Use the "Formula for n: y =" box to enter a rule.

Use the keyboard to enter the formula.

The only variable used should be n.
Use an asterisk (*) to show multiplication. (The multiplication sign can also be omitted, as in algebraic expressions.)
Use a slash (/) to show division.
Use a caret (^) to show exponents.

For example 4x³ + 8 could be entered as 4*x^3+8 or as 4x^3+8.

Entering Start and End Values

Start and End values are the minimum and maximum n-values used to calculate terms in the sequence.

Note: The lists can hold up to 50 values. If the difference between Start and End values is greater than 50, the End value changes automatically.

Generating a Sequence

Click Generate Sequence to see the sequence. Sequence values appear in two places:

the data table (as L1, L2, or L3)
the long box below "List to Fill"

If the sequence has only whole numbers (or integers), these lists are the same.

If the sequence includes rational numbers, these are shown in decimal form in the data table, but in fraction form in the long box.

For example:

Enter a Start value of 1 and an End value of 10.
Enter the Formula 2 ¸ n.
Choose L1 as the List to Fill.
Click Generate a Sequence.

The long box shows the sequence in fraction form:
2, 1, 2/3, ½, 2/5, 1/3, 2/7, ¼, 2/9, 1/5

L1 shows the sequence in decimal form:
2, 1, 0.667, 0.5, 0.4, 0.333, 0.286, 0.25, 0.222, 0.2

Note: Fractions are shown in simplest form. Decimals are rounded to the nearest thousandth.

Generating Multiple Sequences

Each list, L1, L2, and L3 can hold a different sequence.

To generate a second sequence, change the Start value, the End value, and/or the Formula. Then click the arrow beside the "List to Fill" label and select a new list.

Note: When a new formula is entered, the previous one is not saved.