Basic Calculator
A simple, no-frills calculator for everyday arithmetic — addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentages — with a live expression display.
Calculator
Enter an expression using the keypad.
How It Works
This calculator evaluates arithmetic expressions using standard mathematical order of operations (often remembered as BODMAS/PEMDAS): first parentheses, then multiplication and division (left to right), then addition and subtraction (left to right). Typing 2 + 3 × 4 therefore gives 14, not 20 — multiplication happens before addition. Percentage (%) is available as an operator for quick discount or tax-style math. The display shows your full expression as you build it and the running result updates instantly, so you can see exactly what will be calculated before pressing "=".
Formula
Standard operator precedence: parentheses, then × and ÷, then + and −, evaluated left to right within each level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this calculator follow order of operations (BODMAS)?
Yes. It evaluates parentheses first, then multiplication and division (left to right), then addition and subtraction (left to right) — the standard BODMAS/PEMDAS rule used in mathematics worldwide.
Why does 2 + 3 × 4 equal 14 and not 20?
Multiplication is evaluated before addition. 3 × 4 = 12 first, then 2 + 12 = 14. If you want (2+3)×4 = 20, use parentheses explicitly.
Can I use this for percentages?
Yes — the % key applies a modulo/percentage operation. For a quick check like "18% of 500", you can also just type 18/100*500 for the exact same result.
Is there a scientific version with more functions?
Yes — see the Scientific Calculator for trigonometry, logarithms, powers, roots and factorials, or the CASIO-style Scientific Calculator for a familiar layout.
Does this calculator save my history?
The display shows your most recent expression and result. No calculations are stored or sent anywhere — everything runs locally in your browser.