Entering Test Mode (or “Press-to-Test Mode”) on a TI-84 Plus CE is a way of ensuring that students are not able to access any unauthorized programs or files when taking an exam. While it is not immediately obvious how to enter this hidden mode, it will be easy for you to do once you learn how to do it.
Enabling Test Mode
If the process completes without errors, then the calculator should now be in test mode. You can tell by the blue banner at the top of the calculator which states “TEST MODE”.
The calculator will now be rendered incapable of using any apps, programs, pictures/images, etc. Any preexisting files stored in the archive are not actually deleted, just disabled until the calculator is removed from test mode.
One issue with Test Mode is the fact that it causes the battery to drain at a much faster rate, so it is recommended that you remove the calculators from test mode after the examination. For more details on how to do this, refer to this article.