THE DETAIL BEHIND THE ANSWER

Calculator methods
and editorial standards

The editorial process every calculator goes through before it is published.

Define each calculator’s purpose

Every tool should have a specific purpose, with the intended audience, required inputs and outputs established before implementation. Different calculation methods or required fields deserve separate consideration.

Explain calculation methods and sources

The completed page should identify the calculation method, the assumptions it makes, the applicable jurisdiction and the date of any rules or figures it uses. Sources should link directly to the relevant original material.

Check calculator accuracy before publication

Calculations need checks against known examples and boundary cases. Financial and health content should receive appropriate subject-matter review. Names, credentials and review dates should be displayed only when that review has actually taken place.

Explain result limitations

Estimates should be described as estimates. Fees, exclusions, circumstances that change the interpretation and situations outside the tool’s scope should be explained near the relevant result.

Separate advertising from calculator controls

Advertising areas should be clearly labelled and separated from tool controls and results. Advertising relationships should not be presented as independent recommendations.

Review calculator rules and correct errors

A live service needs a schedule for reviewing changing rules, source links and calculations, along with a working way for readers to report an issue. These operations have not been activated in this prototype.