Info Catalog calc: Stack Basics calc: Introduction calc: Algebraic Entry

calc: Numeric Entry

 
 4.4 Numeric Entry
 =================
 
 Pressing a digit or other numeric key begins numeric entry using the
 minibuffer.  The number is pushed on the stack when you press the <RET>
 or <SPC> keys.  If you press any other non-numeric key, the number is
 pushed onto the stack and the appropriate operation is performed.  If
 you press a numeric key which is not valid, the key is ignored.
 
    There are three different concepts corresponding to the word “minus,”
 typified by ‘a-b’ (subtraction), ‘-x’ (change-sign), and ‘-5’ (negative
 number).  Calc uses three different keys for these operations,
 respectively: ‘-’, ‘n’, and ‘_’ (the underscore).  The ‘-’ key subtracts
 the two numbers on the top of the stack.  The ‘n’ key changes the sign
 of the number on the top of the stack or the number currently being
 entered.  The ‘_’ key begins entry of a negative number or changes the
 sign of the number currently being entered.  The following sequences all
 enter the number -5 onto the stack: ‘0 <RET> 5 -’, ‘5 n <RET>’, ‘5 <RET>
 n’, ‘_ 5 <RET>’, ‘5 _ <RET>’.
 
    Some other keys are active during numeric entry, such as ‘#’ for
 non-decimal numbers, ‘:’ for fractions, and ‘@’ for HMS forms.  These
 notations are described later in this manual with the corresponding data
 types.  Data Types.
 
    During numeric entry, the only editing key available is <DEL>.
 

Info Catalog calc: Stack Basics calc: Introduction calc: Algebraic Entry