How to Find A Calculator

Since the invention of the calculator in the early 1900s, computing mathematical problems has become easier and simpler. Handheld and desktop calculators, ranging from the basic addition and subtraction options to more complicated engineering and banking models, have dominated the scene until recently. Now anyone can find and use a calculator to do almost any job online, from figuring out a mortgage payment to determining a loan balance.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine how often you will make specific calculations. A mortgage banker will use a mortgage calculator daily. A homebuyer may use a mortgage calculator once or twice in a lifetime. A loan calculator may be required more often by a layperson, but not enough to warrant the expense.

2. Go online to find a calculator geared for your needs. If you fall into the seldom-use category, Bankrate.com and Move.com provide easy-to-use forums for ciphering your mortgage payment. Also Bankrate.com or Eloan.com can give you loan calculators for other financial computations.

3. Invest in a desk or pocket calculator for daily math problems such as balancing a checkbook or adding up a list of numbers.

4. Purchase your daily calculator from a store rather than online because there are so many options available. Ease of use and size of the buttons can make your daily computing time much more comfortable.

5. Try the calculator before making your purchase.

6. Find a convenient basic calculator on your own computer under the "accessories" tab.

Tips & Warnings

• Know your needs before buying a calculator. A little time researching online can save time and questions in the store
• Learn your children's or your own teacher's requirements before purchasing a calculator for a class.
• Many cell phones and PDAs have calculators built-in, so don't worry about buying small calculators for use outside your home or office.
• Talking calculators are available from Speaktome.com for low vision and blind individuals.