Methodology
How StepShown checks its answers.
A result can look polished and still be wrong. StepShown keeps formulas, sources, limits, reviews, and corrections visible so they can be checked.
Last updated
Calculation rules
- The same inputs always produce the same answer.
- Each input has a safe smallest and largest allowed value.
- StepShown keeps full precision and rounds only when it shows a number.
- Each tool explains its timing rules and what it leaves out.
- Automated tests check normal answers, limits, and broken inputs.
Sources and estimates
A source supports one method or statement. It does not prove that every starting value is right for you. StepShown prefers official government and standards sources for rules and health screening ranges. A number that depends on the market is still an estimate. Replace it with a real quote, assessment, or school rule when you have one.
Guidelines designed by StepShown are labeled as such. For example, the mortgage affordable payment limit is intentionally cautious. It is a planning rule, not a rule a lender must use.
Review states
“Code and tests checked” means someone examined the calculation code and its automated tests. “Expert review is still needed” means an independent professional in that subject has not checked the tool. StepShown never claims a review that did not happen.
Artificial intelligence
An artificial intelligence model does not create calculator answers or comparisons. Artificial intelligence may help inspect code or draft words during development. The finished math must still be easy to inspect, repeat, test, and maintain.
Tool review list
- Mortgage CalculatorVersion 1.1 · high risk
An independent expert still needs to review this tool.
- Cash to CloseVersion 1.0 · high risk
An independent expert still needs to review this tool.
- Debt PayoffVersion 1.1 · high risk
An independent expert still needs to review this tool.
- Refinance PaybackVersion 1.1 · high risk
An independent expert still needs to review this tool.
- Rent vs. BuyVersion 1.1 · high risk
An independent expert still needs to review this tool.
- Compound InterestVersion 1.1 · medium risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- Emergency Fund PlannerVersion 1.0 · medium risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- Auto LoanVersion 1.2 · high risk
An independent expert still needs to review this tool.
- Startup RunwayVersion 1.1 · medium risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- Profit ThresholdVersion 1.0 · medium risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- Freelance Rate PlannerVersion 1.0 · medium risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- Salary vs. ContractVersion 1.0 · medium risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- BMI & Body CompositionVersion 1.2 · high risk
An independent expert still needs to review this tool.
- GPA CalculatorVersion 1.1 · medium risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- Tip & Bill SplitVersion 1.1 · low risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.
- Trip Cost PlannerVersion 1.0 · low risk
The code review is complete. This is not professional approval.