Conceptual Teaching Integration Problem Solving Estimation Mental Calculations Calculations and Computer Manipulative Estimation Estimation is an important mathematical and life skill necessary for effective problem solving, calculations, and calculator use. The desired accuracy of an estimation depends entirely on its use. Whether to produce a rough estimate, fine estimate, or an exact answer depends on the ultimate use of the estimate. Most often practical situations involve estimations rather than exact numbers. It should also be remembered that estimation produces answers that are not exact, but that are adequate for making necessary decisions.
Mental calculation is an important and frequently used practical life skill.
Despite the increasing advances in calculator technology, mental calculations will remain a convenient calculation tool for judging a narrow range of quantitative problems. It can also improve the efficiency of pencil and paper calculations by reducing the number of steps needed to work out a written calculation. The close relationship between estimating and calculating mentally implies that teachers cannot ignore instruction on mental calculations. After all, mental calculation is the cornerstone for all estimation procedures. Through the course of time, humans have tried to develop computing devices to provide easier and more accurate computations.