Numeracy is the ability to reason and to apply simple numerical concepts. Basic numeracy skills consist of comprehending fundamental
arithmetics like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. For example, if one can understand simple mathematical equations such as, 2 + 2 = 4, then one would be considered possessing at least basic numeric knowledge. Substantial aspects of numeracy also include
number sense, operation sense, computation,
measurement,
geometry,
probability and
statistics. A numerically
literate person can manage and respond to the mathematical demands of life. By contrast,
innumeracy (the lack of numeracy) can have a negative impact. Numeracy has an influence on career professions, literacy, and risk perception towards health decisions. Low numeracy distorts risk perception towards health decisions and may negatively affect economic choices. "Greater numeracy has been associated with reduced susceptibility to
framing effects, less influence of nonnumerical information such as mood states, and greater sensitivity to different levels of numerical risk".