Operations and calculations

1. Introduction

Operation

An operation is a mathematical process, which is carried out on input values, such as numbers, decimals and fractions, to produce an output value, or result. Examples of operations include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.

The symbols we use to indicate which operation is to be carried out are called operators.

For example:

  • + (add)
  • – (subtract)
  • x (multiply by)
  • ÷ or / (divide by)
An abacus with different coloured beads denoting different amounts

Image by Vectorportal.com /
CC BY-SA 4.0


Calculation

The process of performing an operation, or series of operations, for a specific purpose, is called a calculation.

For example, you would use addition to total the cost of the items you would like to buy in a store, or subtraction when you realise you do not have enough money to buy them all!