Final answer:
Adding up numbers that are not financial refers to performing calculations with ordinary numbers, which might represent a variety of values beyond just monetary amounts. It emphasizes understanding mathematical principles, like the commutative property, and the context in which approximations are sometimes more appropriate than precise calculations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we talk about adding up numbers that are not financial, it means performing calculations with ordinary numbers which could represent anything other than money. For instance, understanding that the commutative property of addition shows that the order of numbers does not affect the sum, as in 2 + 3 or 3 + 2, both give the same result. This concept is important in various mathematical operations and can be seen in contexts like economics where adding up numbers can get tricky with figures representing a basket of goods or services rather than precise financial transactions.
Just like swimming, mathematics and playing with numbers can become pleasurable with practice. The important lesson is that precision is not always necessary, especially when the context demands a different kind of accuracy, such as with index numbers or when reconciling statements with actual quantitative data. One might need to use blurry numbers to get a general idea without getting bogged down with exact figures, much like how everyday decisions about expenses don't always require down-to-the-penny accuracy.