The TVM Solver can be used to solve the compound interest problems as well as the annuities. The simple interest problems can not be solved with the TVM Solver.
When using the TVM Solver you must indicate the flow of money by using a negative sign. For example: If you are looking at a problem from your personal perspective, then any money that goes away from you is made negative and money that comes to you is positive.
Using the TI-83:
Using the TI-83 plus or the TI-84 models:
You should now see this screen. Note: The numbers for the entries my not be the same as in this picture.
N= is the total number of periods(compoundings), for the life of the account. Computed by m*t
I%= is the interest rate per year as a percentage.
PV= is the present value(starting value) of the account.
PMT= is any fixed payment that is made each period. For a compound interest question, this value is zero.
FV= is the future value(end value) of the account.
P/Y = is the number of payments per year. In the case of a compound interest problem, this is the number of times interest is deposited into the account.
C/Y = is the number of compoundings per year.
Note: For this class, P/Y and C/Y are equal and PMT:END BEGIN should be set to END.
When using the TVM Solver to solve a problem, enter the values and then move the cursor to the line for the quality that is being solved for. Press 
Example: An account is started with $1000 and payments of $250 are made each quarter. The account has a nominal interest rate of 5.4% compounded quarterly. What is the balance after 6 years?
The screen shows the values of the problem entered into the TVM Solver.
Move the cursor to the line FV=. Press to see the solution.
Example: $1500 is borrowed from a bank. Monthly payments of $75 are made to repay the loan. The account has a nominal interest rate of 6% compounded monthly. What is the balance after 1.5 years?
The screen shows the values of the problem entered into the TVM Solver.
Move the cursor to the line FV=. Press to see the solution.
