calculator-helper_skill

Overview

This skill performs mathematical calculations and unit conversions on demand. It handles arithmetic, percentages, unit and temperature conversions, financial formulas, date/time math, and common scientific operations with clear, verifiable results.

How this skill works

I detect the user's request type (e.g., calculate, convert, compute) and choose the appropriate method: arithmetic rules, unit conversion factors, financial formulas (simple/compound interest), or date/time logic. I show the formula, step-by-step calculation, and a final answer with units and sensible rounding. I verify results and note assumptions when necessary.

When to use it

• Ask for direct calculations: 'What is 145 * 23?'
• Request percentages or percentage change: 'What is 15% of 850?'
• Convert units: 'Convert 100 kilometers to miles' or '75°F to °C'
• Financial questions: 'Compound interest on $1000 at 5% for 3 years'
• Date/time math: 'How many days between two dates?'

Best practices

• Restate the problem briefly before solving to confirm intent
• Show the formula used and each intermediate step for transparency
• Round only the final answer to appropriate precision (2 decimals for money)
• Always include units and state assumptions (e.g., days/year = 365)
• Offer a practical rounded value when it helps usability (e.g., measuring cups)

Example use cases

• Calculate a percent: 'Find 25% of 1500' with method and final value
• Unit conversion: 'Convert 75°F to Celsius' showing the formula and rounded result
• Compound interest: 'Invest $5,000 at 6% for 3 years' with final balance and interest earned
• Recipe scaling: 'Scale ingredients from 4 to 7 servings' with scaled measurements
• Percentage change: 'Sales from 1,200 to 1,650' returning percentage increase