[Math Lair] Mental Arithmetic

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The term "mental arithmetic" refers to arithmetic performed mentally, in contrast to arithmetic performed with pencil and paper or with a calculator or other device. There are many advantages to being able to perform arithmetic mentally. For one, performing everyday calculations mentally is often faster than working a problem on paper or typing digits into a calculator. As well, there are many situations where a calculator may not be available. Finally, being able to perform calculations mentally can help to develop number sense.

If you want to improve your skill at mental arithmetic, there are several things you can try:

There are also many books available that aim to teach the reader mental arithmetic.