The key to use for the square, and the cube are well marked and they share the same physical key (X to 2) or [SHIFT][X to 2]. Similarly the keys to use for the square root and the cube root share the same physical location (the square root key, to the right of the square key).
For any other exponent, including fractions and negative exponents you use the universal power key labeled [X to ] ( X with a raised square).
- You enter the base (the number to be raised to a power).
- You press the [X to ] power key.
- You close the parenthesis (the right one).
- You press [=]
Sometimes the result may not be displayed as a decimal number, but as a radical (if you take a root). To make sure it is displayed as a decimal number, in step 4 above, press [SHIFT][=]