How to Use ICONV on the BA II Plus
ICONV is three variables — NOM, EFF and C/Y — and solves in either direction. It answers “what does 12% nominal really earn when compounded monthly?”
Step by step
- 1
Open ICONV
2ND + 2 opens the worksheet at NOM.
[2ND][ICONV]
- 2
Enter the nominal rate and C/Y
NOM = 12 [ENTER], then [↓] [↓] to C/Y, 12 [ENTER].
12[ENTER][↓][↓]12[ENTER]
- 3
CPT the effective rate
[↑] lands on EFF; [CPT] fills it in.
[↑][CPT]
- 4
Reverse direction works too
Enter EFF, set C/Y, then [CPT] on the NOM row.
Worked example (T9): EFF = 12.68
NOM = 12%, C/Y = 12: EFF = (1 + 0.12/12)^12 − 1 = 12.6825…% → displayed 12.68 (12.682503 at DEC = 6). Monthly compounding adds 0.68 points over the year.
[2ND][ICONV]12[ENTER][↓][↓]12[ENTER][↑][CPT]
Web practice cannot replace the physical calculator in a proctored exam — only calculators on the exam organizer’s current list are allowed.
Frequently asked questions
When do I need EFF instead of NOM?
+
Whenever compounding is not annual: comparing accounts with different C/Y, computing true annual returns, or converting between quoted rates.
Does ICONV use P/Y?
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No — only C/Y. P/Y belongs to the TVM worksheet; ICONV is purely a rate converter.