Number patterns are the foundation of algebra and higher mathematics.
Arithmetic sequence: add a fixed number each time (e.g. 2, 5, 8, 11...).
Geometric sequence: multiply by a fixed ratio (e.g. 2, 6, 18, 54...).
This tool is most valuable when you need a result to compare against something else: a quoted figure, a competing option, or a budget threshold. Accurate comparisons require accurate inputs and arithmetic — this calculator ensures both.
The most frequent error is rounding intermediate values before completing the full calculation. Round only the final result — rounding intermediate steps compounds errors in multi-step calculations, sometimes significantly.
A business owner spots that revenue grew from £180,000 last year to £213,400 this year. The calculator confirms the increase is 18.6% — a figure needed for the annual report and for comparing against the industry growth rate cited in the sector report.
A sequence where each term differs from the previous by the same constant (common difference).