Rounding and estimation

Introduction

Unit image

For many calculations you use a calculator. The main aim of this unit is to help you to do this in a sensible and fruitful way. Using a calculation to solve a problem involves four main stages:

  • Stage 1: working out what calculation you want to do;

  • Stage 2: working out roughly what size of answer to expect from your calculation;

  • Stage 3: carrying out the calculation;

  • Stage 4: interpreting the answer – Does it agree with the rough estimate? Does it make sense in terms of the original problem?

This unit focuses on Stages 2 and 4.

This unit is from our archive and is an adapted extract from Open mathematics (MU120) which is no longer taught by The Open University. If you want to study formally with us, you may wish to explore other courses we offer in this subject area [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] .

Next: Learning outcomes