Sig Figs in a problem with addition & multiplication [ENDORSED]

[Sophia Eliopulos 2I]

What would we do if we were given a problem that had addition or subtraction and multiplication or division in the same question? Are we supposed to do sig figs at each step as we work through the problem or do we just wait until the end?

[vsyacoubian2A]

I believe that Dr. Lavelle has said to do the sig figs at the end of the problem. I have also talked to a couple TAs and they have said this as well.

Hope this helps!

[Claudette_Contr_3I]

It is best to incorporate sig figs at the end for most chemistry problems because you get a more accurate answer in the end. If you were to do it for each step, the problem would get messy and the answer in the end may not be as close to if you just round at the end.

[derek1d]

For intermediate calculations what are the general rules for sig figs in a problem with add/sub and mult/divis?
Is it best to not worry about sig figs intermediately in a mixed type of problem or should we adjust for sig figs throughout?

[Timothy Kao 1B]

You should leave off rounding as much as possible until the end of the problem in order to ensure as much accuracy as possible and factor in the dog figs at the very end.

[Emily Oren 3C]

If the problem has both addition and multiplication, do we use the addition/subtraction rule or the multiplication/division rule for determining the number of sig figs in the final answer?