An online adding machine with a paper tape. Type a number and press + or −, add notes to each line, take subtotals and totals, and fix any entry on the tape: everything after it recalculates. Print the tape or save it as text or CSV.
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Type a number, then press an operator: + and − add to or subtract from the running total, × and ÷ multiply or divide it. Enter works as +. Keys: S subtotal, T or = total, G grand total.
Tape
Click any number on the tape to correct it, change its operator or add a note. Everything below recalculates instantly.
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How to use the Paper Tape Calculator
Type a number with the keypad or your keyboard, then press + (or Enter) to add it. Press − to subtract it.
Multiply or divide the running total by typing a number and pressing × or ÷. For a percentage, type it, press %, then + or −.
Label lines by typing in the note box before an entry, or click the empty note area on any tape line.
Press ◇ Subtotal to print the total so far, or ✱ Total to print it and start a new calculation. GT prints the sum of all totals.
Correct mistakes by clicking a number on the tape, then copy, download or print the finished tape.
Tape symbols
Symbol
Key
Meaning
+
+ or Enter
Adds the number to the running total
−
−
Subtracts the number from the running total
×
* or ×
Multiplies the running total by the number
÷
/ or ÷
Divides the running total by the number
+% / −%
% then + or −
Adds or subtracts that percentage of the running total (tax, tips, discounts, markups)
◇
S
Subtotal: prints the running total and keeps going
✱
T or =
Total: prints the running total, adds it to the grand total and resets to zero
GT
G
Grand total: the sum of all totals since the last GT
Example: checking a receipt
Enter 24.99 +, 12.50 +, 3.75 + and press ◇ Subtotal: the tape shows 41.24. Type 7 % + to add 7% sales tax (2.89, rounded to cents on the tape), then press ✱ Total for 44.13. If you later notice the second item was really 12.05, click 12.50 on the tape, type 12.05 and every line below updates. Rounding is only applied to what is shown; the calculator keeps full precision internally, so totals don't drift.
Tips for fast entry
Use the number pad: digits, +, −, *, / and Enter all work without touching the mouse.
Pressing an operator with no number typed repeats the previous number, like the repeat key on a desk adding machine.
Turn on add mode when entering long columns of prices so you never type the decimal point.
Write the note before the number: the text in the note box is attached to the next line you enter.
Frequently asked questions
How is an adding machine different from a normal calculator?
On an adding machine you type the number first and then the operation: 25 + 10 + 5 − gives 30. Each line applies its operator to the running total, so there is no equals key for addition. Subtotal shows the total without clearing it and Total prints it and starts over. This calculator follows that convention, and Enter acts as +.
How do multiplication and division work on the tape?
Typing a number and pressing × multiplies the running total by it, and ÷ divides it. For example 12 +, then 3 × gives 36, and 4 ÷ then gives 9. The result after each line is printed under it, so you can always see what happened.
How do I add sales tax or take off a discount?
Enter the amounts, then type the rate, press % and then + or −. With a total of 200, typing 8 % + adds 8% (16) for 216, and 15 % − subtracts 15% (30) for 170. The tape shows the percentage amount in brackets.
Can I change a number after I entered it?
Yes. Click the value on the tape, type the correct number and press Enter. You can also change the operator from the small menu next to it, add a note or delete the line. Every running total, subtotal and total below it is recalculated.
What is add mode?
Add mode is a bookkeeping feature of adding machines that places the decimal point two digits from the right automatically. Typing 1250 enters 12.50, which is faster for long columns of money amounts. Type a decimal point yourself to override it for one entry.
Is my tape saved?
The tape and your settings are stored in your browser's local storage on this device, so they are still there if you close the page. Nothing is sent to a server. Use Download .csv to open the tape in a spreadsheet, or Clear tape to start fresh.
Are all the tools on FreeToolCabin tested for quality and accuracy?
Yes! Every tool on our site undergoes automated Q/A testing in real browser environments to ensure high precision, correct output, and zero errors. If you happen to spot a bug or have a suggestion, please contact us at [email protected] and our team will review it right away.