Well, there are 7 excellent reasons NOT to seek help from an electronic friend:

1. Save time.

Your brain is a miracle of nature that operates at lightning speed. In a fraction of the time it takes to reach for the calculator, switch it on and type in the digits, you could have the answer in your head.

With a bit of practice, you can save yourself many minutes every day doing the simple sums in your head.

2. Solve problems more easily and lower your stress level.

Math is an analytical process; it's all about solving problems.

When you want to solve a math problem, you go through a certain mental process. You size up the problem, look at possible ways of solving it, and then decide on the best (usually the fastest and easiest) solution.

It's the same process you use in all problem solving. The problems vary, but the route to finding the solution is largely the same.

The more comfortable you feel at solving problems in life, the less stressed out you will feel.

3. Develop concentration power.

The essence of concentration is to focus on one thing exclusively.

Mental math is a process that can only be done one step at a time. Therefore when you calculate something in your head, you are automatically taken into ?the zone? where you experience single-point focus.

Concentration is a skill you develop over time. And it's easier to practice it in small steps rather than long bouts of meditation. Mental math gives you those small steps naturally.

4. Other areas of mathematics become easier to understand.

If you're studying math or science, or thinking about returning to college, you may want to cut back on the calculator.

Numbers are at the core of all mathematics. Algebra, calculus, geometry, trigonometry, statistics... they all become easier when you've got the basic number skills wired into your brain.

5. Speak the language of business.

Imagine you had to stop at every word when reading a book. You'd never complete it.

It's the same with reports full of financial information. In fact numbers are ultimately what business is all about:

Profit and loss. Return on investment. Discounts. Percentages...

When you're comfortable with numbers, you can easily understand statistical surveys, bank statements, company accounts and everything else you find in the world of business and finance.

6. Enjoy the buzz

Getting the right answer to a problem feels good. It's called the ?Aha!? effect.

When you solve a problem, a chemical reaction takes place in your brain. This natural buzz is better than any artificial stimulant and a lot healthier too.

It explains the popularity of crossword puzzles, trivial pursuit, Sudoku and other mind games.

7. Gain confidence.

When you're confident with numbers, you need never fear making silly mistakes or expensive errors that cost you or your company a fortune.

What's more, confidence brings independence. There are many situations where it's inappropriate to pull out a calculator. Your math skill frees you from being chained to the electronic beast.

Conclusion:

Next time you see something like ?7 items at 56 cents each? ...

STOP!

Don't even think about reaching for the calculator. Try doing it in your head.

Machines are great. Calculators especially. But don't let them cheat you out of an opportunity for personal growth.

After all, the best machine you'll ever own is sitting right between your ears.