back of envelope
Quick informal estimate
Back of envelope describes rough, informal calculations or estimates—the kind you might scribble on whatever paper is handy.
A back-of-envelope calculation suggests approximation rather than precision, often to test whether an idea is plausible before committing to detailed analysis.
The phrase implies quick thinking over rigorous method: Some back-of-envelope math shows we'd need twice the budget.
- calculationMathematical problem-solving process
- rough estimateImprecise preliminary calculation
- scribbleWrite without care
- napkinMealtime wiping cloth
- estimateInformed guess at quantity
rough · quick · mental arithmetic · sketch · junk mail · postage · stamp · address · notes · doodle · informal · approximation · order of magnitude · ball park figure · math · brainstorm · thinking out loud · pencil
- approximationsabout, approximately, around, roughly, almost
- heuristicsrule of thumb, heuristic, guideline, mental shortcut, educated guess
- Estimationballpark estimate, estimator, educated guess, guesstimate, rough estimate
- estimatesestimate, estimation, ballpark, ballpark estimate, rough estimate
- math expressionsdo the math, add up, crunch numbers, number crunching, number cruncher
- workaroundsworkaround, workarounds, fixes, hacks, quick fix
back of envelopescientific study
Systematic pursuit of knowledge
in-depth analysis · statistical analysis · feasibility study · due diligence · forensic accounting
back of envelopeofficial report
Authorized documented account
white paper · due diligence · prospectus · business case · strategic plan
back, backs, backed, backing, backer, backside, backyard, backbone, backward