Basic Calculator - Free Online Calculator for Math & Arithmetic
Basic Calculator
Calculation History
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⌨️ Keyboard Shortcuts
What is a Basic Calculator?
A basic calculator is an essential tool for performing fundamental arithmetic operations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Our free online calculator provides a simple, intuitive interface that works on any device—computer, tablet, or smartphone—without requiring any downloads or installations.
Beyond basic arithmetic, our calculator includes useful features like percentage calculations, square root function, memory storage (M+, M-, MR, MC), and keyboard support for faster input. The built-in calculation history keeps track of your last 10 operations, making it easy to review and verify your work.
Whether you're a student doing homework, a professional handling finances, or anyone needing quick calculations, our basic calculator offers the perfect balance of simplicity and functionality. The clean, modern design ensures easy readability, while keyboard shortcuts enable power users to work efficiently.
How to Use the Calculator
Input Numbers
Click number buttons (0-9) or use your keyboard to enter numbers. Use the decimal point (.) for fractions.
Select Operation
Choose an operation: + (add), - (subtract), × (multiply), or ÷ (divide).
Get Results
Press = or Enter to calculate. The result appears instantly in the display.
Use Advanced Features
Try memory functions, percentages, square roots, and check your calculation history.
Calculator Features
🔢 Basic Operations
- • Addition (+): Add two or more numbers together
- • Subtraction (-): Find the difference between numbers
- • Multiplication (×): Multiply numbers quickly
- • Division (÷): Divide with error handling for division by zero
🧮 Advanced Functions
- • Percentage (%): Convert numbers to percentages instantly
- • Square Root (√): Calculate square roots with one click
- • Sign Toggle (±): Switch between positive and negative
- • Decimal Support: Work with fractions and decimals
💾 Memory Functions
- • M+: Add current value to memory
- • M-: Subtract current value from memory
- • MR: Recall the value stored in memory
- • MC: Clear memory (reset to 0)
⌨️ User Experience
- • Keyboard Support: Type numbers and operations directly
- • Calculation History: Review your last 10 calculations
- • Clear Functions: C (clear all) and CE (clear entry)
- • Responsive Design: Works on all devices and screen sizes
Common Calculations & Examples
Basic Arithmetic Examples:
- 25 + 17 = 42
- 100 - 37 = 63
- 8 × 12 = 96
- 144 ÷ 12 = 12
Advanced Examples:
- 50% of 200 = 200 × 0.5 = 100
- √144 = 12
- -25 (±) = 25
- 3.14 + 2.86 = 6
💡 Tip: For complex calculations, use memory functions to store intermediate results. For example, to calculate (25 + 30) × (40 - 15), first calculate 25 + 30 = 55, press M+ to store it, then calculate 40 - 15 = 25, and finally press MR × 25 = to get 1375.
External Resources & Further Learning
Enhance your math skills and learn more about arithmetic operations with these educational resources:
Khan Academy - Arithmetic
Free comprehensive lessons on basic math operations, fractions, decimals, and more with practice exercises.
khanacademy.org →Math Is Fun - Calculator Guide
Learn about calculator precision, order of operations, and advanced calculation techniques.
mathsisfun.com →Wolfram Alpha
Computational knowledge engine for complex mathematical calculations, equations, and data analysis.
wolframalpha.com →Purple Math - Order of Operations
Detailed lessons on PEMDAS/BODMAS and proper order of mathematical operations.
purplemath.com →Related Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use the basic calculator?
Click number buttons (0-9) to input numbers, use operation buttons (+, -, ×, ÷) for calculations, and press = to get the result. You can also use your keyboard for faster input. The calculator supports decimal points, percentages, square roots, and memory functions.
What keyboard shortcuts are available?
You can use number keys (0-9) for digits, +, -, *, / for operations, Enter or = for equals, Esc or C for clear all, Backspace for clear entry, . for decimal point, and % for percentage. This makes calculations faster and more convenient.
What are the memory functions (M+, M-, MR, MC)?
Memory functions let you store and recall values: M+ adds the current value to memory, M- subtracts from memory, MR recalls the stored value, and MC clears memory. This is useful for complex calculations where you need to temporarily store intermediate results.
What is the difference between C and CE buttons?
C (Clear) clears everything including the current calculation and stored operation, resetting the calculator completely. CE (Clear Entry) only clears the current number being entered, allowing you to re-enter it without losing your previous calculation.
Can I see my calculation history?
Yes! The calculator automatically saves your last 10 calculations in the history panel. Each entry shows the expression (e.g., "5 + 3") and the result. You can clear the history at any time using the "Clear History" button.
Is this calculator accurate for scientific calculations?
This basic calculator is designed for everyday arithmetic and is highly accurate for standard operations. For advanced scientific calculations involving trigonometry, logarithms, or complex mathematical functions, use our Scientific Calculator instead.