ERR:SYNTAX
Texas Instruments TI-84 Calculator
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
ERR:SYNTAX means the calculator found a problem with the way your expression or command is written. You may have an extra comma, a missing parenthesis, or used a function incorrectly. Press 2 for Goto to jump to the error location.
Affected Models
- TI-84 Plus
- TI-84 Plus CE
- TI-84 Plus Silver Edition
- TI-83 Plus
- TI-Nspire (TI-84 mode)
Common Causes
- Missing closing parenthesis or bracket
- Extra comma or misplaced operator
- Using a letter where a number is expected
- Entering a command on the home screen that only works in a program
- Using the subtraction sign (-) instead of the negative sign ((-))
How to Fix It
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Press 2 (Goto) to jump to the error location.
The cursor moves to the exact spot where the calculator found the error. Look at the characters around the cursor for the mistake.
-
Check for missing closing parentheses.
Every opening ( needs a closing ). The TI-84 does not auto-close parentheses. Count your open and close parentheses to make sure they match.
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Make sure you are using the negative sign ((-)) and not the minus sign (-).
The negative sign is the (-) key at the bottom of the keypad. The minus key is the subtraction operator. Using the wrong one causes ERR:SYNTAX.
-
Check for implied multiplication issues.
The TI-84 handles implied multiplication (like 2X), but some combinations require an explicit *. If in doubt, add the * between terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the negative sign and the minus sign?
The negative sign (-) is a small raised minus on the bottom of the keypad — it makes a number negative (like -5). The minus sign is the subtraction operator in the right column — it subtracts one number from another (like 10-5).
Why does the TI-84 not auto-close parentheses?
The TI-84 lets you omit closing parentheses at the end of an expression as a shortcut. For example, sin(45 works the same as sin(45). But mid-expression, missing parentheses cause ERR:SYNTAX.