Simple calculator
A simple calculator does basic arithmetic: add, subtract, multiply, and divide. This page on Calculators Wiki is for quick checks when you do not need anything fancy.
It follows normal order of operations when expressions include more than one step. That means multiplication and division come before addition and subtraction unless you use parentheses.
Use it for everyday math, but keep in mind that any calculator can only be as accurate as the numbers you enter. Rounding can change the last digit or two.
How it's calculated
Basic operations
A simple calculator uses the standard arithmetic rules: - Addition: a + b - Subtraction: a - b - Multiplication: a × b - Division: a ÷ b, with division by zero not allowed
For mixed expressions, it uses order of operations: 1. Parentheses 2. Multiplication and division 3. Addition and subtraction
If you want a related tool for percentage changes, try the percentage calculator. For the rule set behind order of operations, see Khan Academy's order of operations guide.
Worked example
Evaluate: 8 + 3 × 4
- Do multiplication first: 3 × 4 = 12
- Then add: 8 + 12 = 20
So the result is 20.
Notes on accuracy
- Whole numbers are exact if entered exactly.
- Decimal inputs may be rounded depending on display settings.
- Very large numbers can lose precision in some software calculators.