If you don’t understand the mechanisms of arithmetic, algebra is going to be a challenge. If you don’t understand algebra, lots of other things that are applicable to daily life and trades are also out.

I use geometry and trig for gardening. I do unit conversions (algebra) in cooking. I use simple probablilty in gaming.

All of this comes down to my ability to perform arithmetic operations on abstract symbols. A calculator can give me the numeric results, but it can’t help me manipulate the equation to get the answer I need.

True, but you’ll save lots of time if you keep the ability to do simple math in your head.

Classmates always wondered how I could finish the tests before the time limit while they weren’t even finished when the bell rang. Well, who’d have thought, entering 20*5 into your calculator takes longer than just doing it in your head? I don’t want to know how long these people take shopping groceries now that everyone has a calculator in their pocket.