Calculator

Calculator mode is the % mode in the Combo Palette.

It is meant for quick working math while you are budgeting, entering transactions, or checking numbers. The point is to stay inside Common Cents instead of reaching for another app.

What it supports #

Calculator mode supports the basic tools you actually need most often:

• numbers
• parentheses
• +, -, *, and /
• %

As you type, Common Cents evaluates the expression live. If the expression is incomplete or invalid, the palette shows that state instead of pretending the result is final.

What you can do with a result #

When the current result is valid, the calculator gives you several follow-up actions:

• Save to recent stores the result in recent calculations
• Use in [field name] appears when the calculator is tied to a specific amount field
• Use in next field arms the result for the next amount field you click into
• Copy result puts the result on your clipboard so that you can then paste it where you need

Using it with amount fields #

Common Cents can connect the calculator to amount fields.

That matters in two situations:

• if you opened the calculator from an amount field, you can send the result straight back into that field
• if you are still moving through a form, you can arm the result and use it in the next amount field you land on

There is also a separate setting (Settings > General> Show calculator button on amount fields) that controls whether amount fields show a calculator-launch button.

Recent calculations #

Recent calculations are kept inside the palette.

• pressing Enter or using = saves a valid result to the recent list
• selecting a recent calculation loads that expression again
• each recent row also has its own Copy action

When it is useful #

Use it when you need a quick total, subtraction, or comparison while entering or reviewing data and do not want to break your flow.

It is not meant to be a full spreadsheet or finance calculator. It is the fast in-context calculator for everyday budgeting work.