Just like fractions, exponents can be entered in several different ways.
Note that 
has a pull-down arrow that enables you to access other exponent buttons.
Using the exponent character – ‘^’
Example:
Typing a^b will create 
. However, notice that ab^2 will create 
, which may not be what you intended. There are several ways to "force" a into the base. For example, you could place ab into parentheses: (ab)^2 will produce 
(you will have to exit the parenthesis using the 
key before entering ^2).
Using the "New power" button
When you click on the 
(New power) button it produces an exponent template 
, allowing you to fill in both the base and the exponent. First enter the base, and then either click on the exponent space-holder 
or use the 
key to move ‘up’ and enter the exponent.
Using the "Selected base" button
This method is typically used when the base is already entered, i.e. you have entered 2a+b and now you wish to turn it into a base. Select it with the mouse, click on the 
(Selected base) button and you will then be able to enter the exponent.
Using the "Selected exponent" button
This assumes that you have already entered the exponent, but not the base (an uncommon scenario). For example, by entering 2, selecting it and clicking on the 
(Selected exponent) button, you will have created this expression: 
. Now you need to enter the base.
How do you "exit" the exponent area?
For example, if the cursor is at the end of exponent and you need to add another expression which adds to, or multiplies by, the existing one. Simply press the key – the cursor’s size will tell you what your exact position within the expression is - and enter the next expression once the cursor is 'clear of' the exponent area.
Watch Video
Simplifying exponential expressions
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