Can you do sums in your head or do you need the calculator?
By breepeace
@breepeace (3014)
Canada
June 27, 2007 10:29pm CST
If it's extremely basic (2+2, 5x5, etc.) I can usually manage on my own, but if it's a bit more complicated (multiples of 8, 365+418) I definitely need a calculator, and it goes without saying that anything very difficult is almost impossible with me.
Math was never my strong suit when I was in school. I have to simplify all larger numbers into smaller sums and do my calculations that way, but since it takes considerably longer I usually just cave and use the calculator on my computer or my mobile.
What about you?
2 people like this
7 responses
@a_ce_e (1422)
• Philippines
1 Jul 07
I love Mathematics when i am still studying. I can calculate numbers orally fast even without calculators, but now since i got a job, even my job relates with numbers i often rely on computers to do the calculations and so my mind become dull in calculating numbers orally.
1 person likes this
@mashiuwsan (154)
• Philippines
17 Nov 09
I can completely relate to you. When I'm in front of a computer I'd rather use the calculator than do it in my head. Even just the simple ones...haha
@mashiuwsan (154)
• Philippines
5 Nov 09
If asked this question 10 years ago or so...I would have to say I can do mental math pretty good. But after years of spending a lot of time in front of a computer, with my cellphone, my mental math abilities just started going out to window. I think it takes a lot of practice to keep doing it.
@mari_skye (1637)
• Philippines
28 Jun 07
I use the calculator for large amounts or complicated calculations. No use wasting time when you can have the amount in seconds. But for minor additions or subtractions I do it in my head.
1 person likes this
@amyann16 (414)
• United States
29 Jun 07
I probably could do the higher levels of addition in my head, but usually grab for the calculator instead if it is handy-- it is just faster to do it that way. Any kind of subtraction or double digit multiplication, I always use the calculator.
1 person likes this
@hermitcrabheaven (645)
• United States
28 Jun 07
I can do the very, very basic ones in my head, only if they are ones that I can remember. The ones that are more complicated need a calculator or my fingers, which is really funny because I am very proficient in math. It was always one of my best subjects. I also have OCD, so a lot of times I have to recheck myself with finger or calculator, or paper, even though I should know the answer. 9x6 and 8x7 ALWAYS get me. LOL!!
1 person likes this
