But what real worth is memorizing times-tables for the modern student, when a calculator is now a fundamental part of his tools ?
The worth is that those of us old enough to have been taught to use log tables, slide rules, straight or circular, and those with a reasonable grasp of basic mental arithmetic are less likely to make gross errors with a calculator or computer, particularly getting the answer a factor of 10 (or more) out – it does happen. It also improves estimating skills and interpolation.
Also, as mentioned above, it saves time in the check out queue when you how much is due before the checkout operator.
A very similar argument to the need to be good at stick and rudder flying to get the most from the automation.
