mathClassic tool
Number Sequence Calculator
Calculate arithmetic or geometric sequences, preview first terms, find the nth term and sum the series.
Use this number sequence calculator to work through arithmetic and geometric sequences without expanding every term by hand. It highlights the pattern quickly and gives you the target term in a few seconds.
Enter the first term, the common difference or ratio, how many starting terms you want to preview and which position you want to calculate. The tool also returns the partial sum up to the chosen n value.
That makes it useful for homework, classroom review, exam preparation, quick checks and any practical situation where you need to confirm whether a sequence grows, shrinks, alternates signs or stays constant.
Use clear inputs to get a more useful result.
How to read the result
After you generate the answer, focus on three parts: the pattern that drives the sequence, the rule for the nth term and the running total up to the position you selected.
- In an arithmetic sequence, the value changes by the same difference every step.
- In a geometric sequence, the value changes by the same multiplicative ratio every step.
- When the geometric ratio is negative, the signs usually alternate between positive and negative.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between arithmetic and geometric sequences?
Arithmetic sequences add or subtract the same amount each step. Geometric sequences multiply by the same factor each step.
Can I use decimals and negative numbers?
Yes. The calculator accepts decimals and negative values for the first term and for the difference or ratio.
Why is the partial sum useful?
It shows the total of all terms from the first one through the selected n value, which is common in homework, forecasts and quick checks.