Hard case or the stock cover. That’s it.

The best way to protect a graphing calculator is a hard case or its original sliding cover, plus common sense about heat, drops, and long-term storage.

Graphing calculators are actually pretty tough — the buttons and circuit boards can take a beating. The screen is the weak spot. A cracked LCD is basically a paperweight, and replacements often cost more than the calculator is worth. So the first rule is simple: keep the screen covered when it’s not in use. The sliding cover that came with it is fine. A cheap hard EVA shell case is even better because it also protects the corners and buttons.

Don’t overthink it. The bigger risks are heat and battery leakage. Leaving it in a hot car can warp the screen or melt the keypad. If you’re stashing it for months, take the batteries out. And don’t throw it loose in a backpack with textbooks — that’s how you get a cracked screen from one sharp corner.

If you really want extra credit, a glass screen protector designed for the model is a few bucks and can save you from a major headache. But honestly, a cover and not being stupid with it covers 95% of cases.

Future math you might actually use — protect it.