Step-by-step walkthrough

GPA Calculator Guide

Use this companion guide beside the interactive calculator to make sure you understand the “why” behind every click. Each section includes the classroom explanation, student-friendly language, and quick practice prompts.

Before you start

Collect the data points listed below and double-check their units. Keeping an organized “givens” list is one of the fastest ways to reduce math errors and impress exam graders.

  • gpa
  • grade point average
  • college grades

Detailed procedure

  1. Step 1

    Add each course, select its letter grade, and enter the credit hours.

  2. Step 2

    Use the add/remove controls as semesters change.

  3. Step 3

    Review the resulting GPA, letter equivalent, and total credits counted.

Teaching & troubleshooting tips

How do I include pass/fail classes?

Exclude pass/fail courses from the credit list—they do not impact GPA on most transcripts.

Can I switch to a 5.0 or weighted scale?

This version uses the common 4.0 scale. Export the data to a spreadsheet if you need a custom weighting scheme.

Next steps