Basic Calculator
This Basic Calculator helps you perform everyday arithmetic operations with ease. It supports addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentage calculations with an intuitive interface. The calculator includes a history view to track your calculations and supports keyboard input for faster use.
Choose the calculator mode
Current calculation value
Tips:
- Use keyboard for fast input
- Press Escape to reset
- Press Enter for equals
- Use ( and ) for order of operations
Enter numbers to calculate
Basic Calculator
Understanding Essential Arithmetic Operations
What is a Basic Calculator?
A basic calculator is a tool for performing fundamental arithmetic operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These calculators provide a simple way to perform everyday calculations quickly and accurately.
Calculator Operations
1. Addition (+)
The addition operation combines two numbers to find their sum.
- Enter the first number
- Press the + button
- Enter the second number
- Press = to see the result
Example: 25 + 13 = 38
2. Subtraction (-)
The subtraction operation finds the difference between two numbers.
- Enter the first number (minuend)
- Press the - button
- Enter the second number (subtrahend)
- Press = to see the result
Example: 52 - 17 = 35
3. Multiplication (×)
The multiplication operation finds the product of two numbers.
- Enter the first number (multiplicand)
- Press the × button
- Enter the second number (multiplier)
- Press = to see the result
Example: The product of 8 × 9 = 72
4. Division (÷)
The division operation finds the quotient of two numbers.
- Enter the first number (dividend)
- Press the ÷ button
- Enter the second number (divisor)
- Press = to see the result
Example: The quotient of 45 ÷ 5 = 9
5. Percentage (%)
The percentage function converts a number to its equivalent decimal representation (divides by 100).
- Enter a number
- Press the % button
Example: 25% = 0.25
Additional Functions
1. Clear (AC)
The AC (All Clear) button resets the calculator, clearing all values and operations.
2. Positive/Negative Toggle (±)
The ± button changes the sign of the currently displayed number, making a positive number negative or a negative number positive.
3. Backspace (⌫)
The backspace button removes the last digit entered, allowing for correction of input errors.
Real-World Applications
Everyday Uses
- Shopping: Calculating totals, discounts, tips, and taxes
- Budgeting: Tracking expenses and income
- Cooking: Adjusting recipe quantities
- Education: Solving basic math problems
Pro Tips
- Use keyboard shortcuts for faster calculations (numbers and operators work directly)
- Perform multiple operations in sequence without pressing = between each step
- If you make a mistake, use backspace instead of starting over
- Store frequently used values in memory with the M+ button
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Order of Operations: Remember that multiplication and division take precedence over addition and subtraction. The calculator handles this automatically for you.
- Forgetting to Clear: Always check if the calculator needs to be cleared before starting a new calculation.
- Division by Zero: Be aware that dividing any number by zero will result in an error.
- Percentage Confusion: The percentage button (%) divides the displayed number by 100.
Command Palette
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