Simple Calculator

Purpose & User Intent: This tool provides a compact arithmetic calculator that can be embedded in web pages or apps. It targets developers, content creators, product managers, and testers who require a predictable two-operand calculation without relying on external services. The focus is on privacy, deterministic results, and fast response times in contexts like help articles, dashboards, documentation pages, and knowledge bases. It supports high-precision inputs and clear error handling.
Core Logic & Features: The core flow accepts two numeric inputs and an operator (+, -, *, /). The engine parses inputs as floating-point numbers and applies the selected operation. The approach eschews advanced functions to keep behavior transparent and deterministic. Features include input validation, division handling, and straightforward result formatting. Optional considerations include negative numbers, decimals, and fixed precision control when needed.
Inputs & Outputs: Inputs: first_operand (number), second_operand (number), operator (string: +|-|*|/). Outputs: result (number) formatted in standard decimal notation; error state when inputs are invalid or division by zero. Validation rules ensure numeric inputs; non-numeric values produce errors. Output formatting adheres to typical JavaScript-number conventions unless overridden.
Algorithms & Calculations: Core calculation is result = a op b, with op ∈ {+, -, *, /}. Division by zero triggers an error state rather than producing Infinity. For division, operands are treated as floating-point numbers. Precision can be managed via rounding rules if implemented, but default behavior uses standard decimal representation.
Error & Edge Cases: Missing inputs, non-numeric values, or unsupported operators produce explicit errors. Division by zero yields a defined error message. Very large or very small values are handled by standard floating-point rules; overflow/underflow are surfaced as errors where applicable.
Industry/Region & Localization: Uses period as decimal separator; generic English-language presentation suitable for global developers. Localized number formatting is not assumed unless extended later.
Assumptions & Exclusions: Assumes two operands and a single operator per calculation. Does not implement percent, exponentiation beyond standard four operators, or historical/repeatable memory features.