Numeracy is the ability to understand and use mathematical concepts to solve everyday and workplace problems. It includes measuring, estimating, budgeting, calculating, interpreting charts and graphs, and working with numbers accurately. Strong numeracy skills help people make informed decisions, manage money, complete trade-related tasks, and analyze information with confidence.

Examples include:

• Measuring materials accurately for a project.
• Calculating costs, budgets, and quantities.
• Reading and interpreting charts, graphs, and technical drawings.
• Estimating time, distance, or materials needed.
• Using formulas, percentages, and basic calculations to solve workplace problems.

In the skilled trades, numeracy is essential for ensuring work is accurate, safe, and efficient, from reading blueprints and measuring materials to estimating project costs and interpreting technical data.