Inflation correction

Reported inflation figures are probably not what you think they are. This mismatch can be misused for political purposes.

Notation Polish Reverse

Why are efficient and functional things (software, machines, procedures) so often "upgraded" to become less functional? RPN calculators are a good example of a device that was upgraded to become much worse.

Whiffletree

What does a whiffletree have to do with digital-to-analog converters? Or with windscreen-wipers? Or with hanging decorations? And what the dickens is a whiffletree?

Mindful logarithm (II)

A second instalment about log-tables, the work-horse of computation: powerful but these days only used by the enthusiast. My advice: everyone needs to become an enthusiast.

Mindful Logarithm

GEEK ALERT: Logarithms are the bee's knees. Super-powered and super elegant. Can you calculate them with only pen and paper? YES WE CAN!

Calculating miracle

What happens if you press the sine or cosine button on your calculator? This is a properly hard question with a rather beautiful answer. Those who know about series expansions can probably think of some straightforward suggestions. But the more beautiful answer and in many cases the most efficient answer calculates sines and cosines of …