Human behaviour and performance in calculator use with Algebraic and Reverse Polish Notation

Two carefully matched calculators using different logic systems were compared using subjects experienced in each logic system. Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) proved superior to Algebraic Notation (AN) in all comparisons, although the differences in overall speed and accuracy were smaller than had previously been found. A classification scheme for user behaviour was derived and used to show that the superiority of RPN was due to elimination of sequence errors and reduction of unnecessary steps in performing calculations.