Basic Calculator
A simple online calculator for everyday sums: type a calculation with + − × ÷, brackets and %, and see the answer with every step in order.
A straightforward calculator for everyday sums: add up a bill, split a cost, or double-check a figure with brackets. Type the whole calculation on one line. It follows the normal order of operations, so multiplication and division happen before addition and subtraction, and the step list shows exactly how the answer was reached.
How to use this tool
- Type a calculation such as
(1250 − 380) ÷ 4 + 15. You can use * or x for multiply and / for divide. - Use brackets to force part of the sum to be worked out first.
- Add % after a number for percentages, as in
80 × 15%or200 + 10%. - Read the result and the numbered steps underneath.
Formula
Order of operations: brackets → × and ÷ (left to right) → + and − (left to right)
Percentages follow the rule used by most phone and search-engine calculators: a × b% is a × b ÷ 100, while a + b% and a − b% add or subtract b percent of a, so 200 + 10% = 220. Commas must group thousands, as in 1,000, so type decimals with a point.
Example
Four friends split a $1,250 bill after a $380 voucher, then each adds $15 for the taxi. Typing (1250 − 380) ÷ 4 + 15 works out 1250 − 380 = 870, then 870 ÷ 4 = 217.5, then 217.5 + 15 = 232.5, so each person pays $232.50.
Frequently asked questions
Why does 2 + 3 × 4 give 14 and not 20?
Multiplication is done before addition, so 3 × 4 = 12 is worked out first and 2 is added afterwards. Type (2 + 3) × 4 if you want 20.
How does % work here?
On its own, 15% means 0.15. After × or ÷ it acts as that fraction, so 80 × 15% = 12. After + or − it means a percentage of the number before it, so 80 + 15% = 80 + 12 = 92 — handy for adding tax or a tip.
Why does 0.1 + 0.2 show exactly 0.3?
Computers store decimals in binary, which leaves tiny errors such as 0.30000000000000004. Results are rounded to 12 significant digits to remove that noise, far more precision than everyday sums need.
Can I use negative numbers?
Yes. Put a minus sign in front: −5 × 3 is −15 and 10 − −4 is 14. Brackets around a negative number, as in 10 × (−2), also work.
Last updated: 2026-10-30