Decimal Precision and Slider Bars

The Slider Bar is a tool for setting the Precision of the data you are entering.  In simplest terms,   Precision is the number of digits to the right of the decimal point.  A precision of 3 means there are three numbers to the right of the decimal, such as 6.399.  If most numbers you are entering have same precision, set the slider.  It eliminates the need to enter decimals in most cases.

You are in control of your own training.  While practicing or drilling, you can use the slider to control the type of numbers that appear.  Hate decimals?  Set the slider to "0" and all the practice data will be whole numbers.  Or, do you really need to practice with decimals?  (Most of us do.)  Keep the slider at "F" for floating point. (That is a simple way of saying the decimal point floats around from entry to entry, rather than being at the same precision in every number you enter.)

If most of your real work will be in dollars and cents, practice with the slider set to "$" to display you data to a precision of 2 with a $ in front (e.g., $1.23).  Or, select "2," if you want to indicate that the number will normally have two digits after the decimal point, but no $ in front (e.g., 3.21).  Then, when you enter the data, enter only the numerals and not the decimal point.  It will be entered for you at the precision you set.  You will find your speed improves if you learn NOT to enter the decimal point if almost all of the data being entered has it in the same spot.

The letter and number symbols can be interpreted as follows:

• $ = Currency including cents (decimal point never entered by user).

• F = Floating decimal point (and so must be entered since it might appear anywhere).

• 0 = whole numbers (no decimal point).

• 1 - 6 = # of fixed decimal places.

Except for floating decimals, the decimal is assumed always to be at the position specified on the slider, and should be entered only if it is not in that position.

NOTE:  There is a large variety of desktop and on-screen adding machines and calculators out there, and they don't all work in the same way.  TenKey Tutor's slider bar works the way many calculators work, but not like most adding machines.  (See The TenKey Calculator for a brief discussion of the differences.)  Be aware when operating a new machine that you should check out its "slider bar" or "precision" setter for best results.  If you are studying with TenKey Tutor at home to improve your skills at work, check your work machine to be sure it will enter the decimals for you.  If it doesn't, do your training at home with the precision set for floating point so you will learn to always put the decimal in.