This mental ability develops the confidence that assures students that they have the skills to quickly solve basic mathematical problems. Students involved in repetitive paper and pencil exercises often become accustomed to following with minimum thought, pre-determined steps. Mental calculation forces students to think about numbers and number relationships. Estimation Mathematics is a discipline that we often characterize by its precision in common usage. However, we do not always need, nor are we sometimes able, to attain a high degree of accuracy in our calculations.
Approximate numbers are often easier to comprehend and they can also help to develop consistency.
When counting, measuring, or calculating it is often advantageous to estimate prior to finding a more exact solution. Development of the concept and skills of estimation helps students to adapt mathematics in a variety of situations. The increased emphasis of estimation in the curriculum corresponds with the important role estimation assumes in daily life. Integration Mathematics should be applicable and meaningful for all students. Students must understand the need for them to learn the concepts and skills of mathematics.