How do you type negative exponents into a calculator?

If your calculator is advanced, like the TI-84, there is an exponent button you can hit. Then, just Type negative and the exponent. If it is a simpler calculator, like a four-function calculator, there IS a way. By raising a number to a negative exponent, you are saying that one is being divided by that number to the positive version of that power. Ex: 5^-8 = 1/(5^8). To do this, divide one by the base, then raise it to the exponent, making sure that the exponent is POSITIVE. Also be careful that the entire denominator is in parentheses, just in case.