Basic Calculator
Basic Calculator
ChiliMath.comHow to Use the Basic Calculator
This calculator works just like a pocket calculator: enter a number, choose an operation, enter the next number, and press =. The line above the result shows the calculation you entered.
1. Doing a Calculation
- Type the first number, e.g. 25
- Press an operation: + − × ÷
- Type the second number, e.g. 4
- Press = to see the answer: 25 × 4 = 100
You can chain operations without pressing equals each time — entering 10 + 5 × 2 step by step calculates 10 + 5 = 15 first, then continues with × 2, just like a standard pocket calculator. Pressing = again repeats the last operation.
2. The Special Keys
| Key | What it does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| % | Percent. With + or −, it takes a percent of the first number | 200 + 10% = 220 |
| √ | Square root of the number on screen | √81 = 9 |
| ± | Changes the sign of the number on screen | 5 → −5 |
| ⌫ | Erases the last digit you typed | 123 → 12 |
| AC | All Clear — wipes everything and starts fresh |
3. Memory Keys
- M+ — adds the number on screen to memory
- M− — subtracts the number on screen from memory
- MR — recalls (displays) what’s stored in memory
- MC — clears the memory
A small M appears at the top of the display whenever something is stored in memory. Memory is handy for adding up several separate results — for example, calculate 12 × 3, press M+, calculate 8 × 5, press M+, then press MR to see the total: 76.
4. Keyboard Shortcuts
On a computer you can type directly: digits, + - * / %, Enter for equals, Backspace to erase a digit, and Esc to clear everything.
Tip: if you see Error (for example after dividing by zero), press AC or just start typing a new number.