Vitaliy wrote:
> I don't think I would describe it as "threatened", but I will admit
> that when I compare the perceived benefit to the perceived cost (cost
> of RPN calculator, learning curve) I don't really see the point.
>
> I normally use my TI-89, which gives me the benefit of being able to
> go back and edit an expression, as well as write programs (sometimes
> rather complicated) to automate certain calculations. Lately, I've
> been using Google as a calculator. Excel can also be useful sometimes.
>
> Can you give me an example when RPN would be superior?

It's hard to provide concrete examples that someone not familiar with RPN
would appreciate.  I know I've seen supposedly scholarly studies that show
that fewer keystrokes are needed to solve the same problem in RPN than
algebraic, but I think that is missing the point.

For me, the advantage of RPN is that it just fits better with the mental
processes of working thru some equation.  I think it has something to do
with the order of keystrokes is closer to the order of thinking about the
problem.  There seems to be less thinking ahead required, with all the
attendent possibilities of messing up.  I guess this has something to do
with that each step of the way with RPN, you have a result that can be used
in any way going forward.  You don't have to think of what state the
calculator is in currently (did I remember to hit "-" or "+" before this
number?).

I know this all sounds like fuzzy nonsense.  You really just have to try it.
Then you'll be part of the converted and will have the same problem trying
to describe the advantages to the clueless heathen masses.  Again, even
though it's hard to articulate the advantages, I don't know a single person
that gave RPN a real try that went back to algebraic.


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