ADSP: Algorithms + Data Structures = Programs Episode 274: Recreational Math, Calculators & the Quadratic Formula
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Feb 20, 2026 They riff on recreational math puzzles and number tricks that spark curiosity. They debate calculators and favorite features for exact work. They trace schooling shortcuts like PEMDAS and FOIL back to deeper place-value ideas. They talk about the quadratic formula’s place as a pragmatic fallback alongside completing the square.
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Why Order-Of-Operations Exists
- Conventions like PEMDAS evolved from historical notation and terse symbolic practice, not from a single purposeful design.
- The precise acronym matters less than the underlying convention and clarity of expression.
Prefer Clear Notation Over Mnemonics
- When writing math clearly, prefer fractions and parentheses over ambiguous inline division symbols.
- Use visual structure to convey intent instead of relying on mnemonic order-of-operations puzzles.
Calculator Preferences And Features
- Ben and Conor debate their favorite non-graphing calculators and features like binary/hex conversion.
- Conor praises a long-lived Casio FX-115D while Ben fondly recalls a TI-30XS MultiView used for exams.