Basic Calculator
Type or tap to build your expression.
Entering a clean expression
Enter the expression exactly as you want it evaluated. Use parentheses when a group must be handled before the normal operation order. This matters for expressions such as 2 + 3 x 4, where multiplication is done before addition. If you mean the addition first, type (2 + 3) x 4.
This tool is best for everyday arithmetic, quick homework checks and simple expressions. It is not meant to replace a full algebra system. If the expression has variables, unclear grouping or implied multiplication, rewrite it in a clear calculator format first.
Why the order matters
The answer is the value of the expression after applying standard operation order. Parentheses are handled first, then powers, then multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction. Multiplication and division share the same level, so they are read from left to right. Addition and subtraction work the same way.
If the result feels surprising, the calculator is often showing a grouping issue rather than a math error. Look for a missing parenthesis, a negative sign near a power or a division line that you meant to cover more than one term.
Rules the calculator follows
A basic calculator does not use one formula for every problem. It evaluates the expression using operation precedence. That shared rule is why the same typed expression should give the same answer across normal calculators, spreadsheets and programming languages, unless the input format is ambiguous.
For 2 + 3 x 4, the calculator evaluates 3 x 4 first. That gives 12, then 2 is added, so the result is 14. For (2 + 3) x 4, the parenthesized part is 5, so the result is 20.
A quick order-of-operations check
Suppose you type 18 - 6 / 3. Division happens before subtraction, so 6 / 3 becomes 2. The expression becomes 18 - 2, which equals 16. If you meant to subtract 6 first, enter (18 - 6) / 3 instead. That gives 12 / 3, or 4.
This is the main reason people compare two calculator answers and think one is wrong. The visible numbers may be the same, but the grouping changes the calculation.
Mistakes that change the answer
The most common mistake is reading every expression strictly from left to right. Another common issue is typing a long division without parentheses. For example, 10 / 2 + 3 is not the same as 10 / (2 + 3). The calculator can only follow the expression you enter.
Also watch negative numbers next to powers. Many calculators read -2^2 as -(2^2), which equals -4. If the negative value is part of the base, enter (-2)^2.
Basic Calculator FAQ
Does this calculator follow order of operations?
Yes. It follows standard operation order, so parentheses are handled first. Powers come next. Multiplication and division are handled before addition and subtraction. For operations at the same level, the calculator reads from left to right.
That is why 2 + 3 x 4 gives 14, not 20. If you want the addition first, type (2 + 3) x 4.
Can I use parentheses in a basic calculator expression?
Yes. Parentheses are the cleanest way to remove doubt. Use them whenever part of the expression should be grouped, especially around denominators, totals or negative numbers.
For example, 10 / (2 + 3) tells the calculator that the whole denominator is 5. Without parentheses, 10 / 2 + 3 is read as 5 + 3.
Why is 2 + 3 x 4 not 20?
Because multiplication has priority over addition. The calculator first does 3 x 4, which gives 12. Then it adds 2, giving 14.
The answer 20 comes from doing the addition first. That is a different expression, and it should be written as (2 + 3) x 4.
Why does my calculator give a different answer than another calculator?
Most differences come from how the expression was entered. Parentheses, implied multiplication, negative signs and fraction bars can change the meaning. Some calculator models also display extra parentheses to show how they interpreted the input.
When in doubt, rewrite the expression with explicit multiplication signs and parentheses. That makes the intended order easier to check.
Can I use this for decimals and negative numbers?
Yes. Decimals and negative numbers work for ordinary arithmetic. The main caution is grouping. A negative number beside an exponent should usually be wrapped in parentheses if the negative sign belongs to the base.
For example, (-3)^2 means negative three squared. Without parentheses, many calculators treat the exponent as applying to 3 only.