- Unit Prices - The presence of unit prices allows us to comparison shop on the spot so that we end up with a basket full of the best value available in the grocery store. Sadly, the numbers aren't always accurate and customers end up walking out with products they wouldn't have otherwise chosen. Take matters into your own hands and calculate the unit prices in the aisle.
- Gas Mileage - Some cars come equipped with systems that automatically calculate the mileage your car is getting, while other car owners are left to use their own estimating devices. Getting an accurate measurement of your gas mileage is important for determining gas expenses in your monthly budget, and can be helpful if you're trying to improve your mileage by changing your driving habits. For example, you might typically have a lead foot on the gas pedal and are testing out going the speed limit. Keep track of the miles you drive after filling up the tank and do the math to see if the change has made a positive effect.
- Cost-Per-Use - When you're considering purchasing something, especially if it's on the pricey side, think about how much wear or use you'll get out of it versus a cheaper version. If a more expensive item is significantly better in quality, the cost-per-use can be more economical in the long term.
- Tipping and Splitting the Bill - Gone are the days of selecting someone at the table to figure out the bill. Avoid having to do the math in your head at the end of a delightful meal by letting your handy cell phone calculator help you. Punching in the percentage you'd like to leave as a tip and figuring out how much everyone owes takes a mere minute.
- Think Twice About Charging It - Make smarter choices about the items you charge to your credit card. If you haven't saved up for something you're thinking of buying, use your calculator to figure out how long it would take you to pay off the charge. Consider the amount, your credit card's interest rate, and how much you'd be able to pay off each month. Hopefully this will prevent you from buying things you can't afford and remind you that the effects of instant gratification can be long-lasting.
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