Copyright: Copyright ®1995 Hufnagel Software
Citation: Copyright ®1995 Hufnagel Software


Contents

How to Use Mouse Math

The Story of Mouse Math

About the Drill Screen

Using the Setup Menu

Help with Problems

What is Shareware

Limited Warrantee / License

Ombudsman

Acknowledgments


Philo
The Story of Mouse Math

For the past three years, one of my son's summertime activities has been to work in his office every weekday morning.  His office consists of a desk, our home computer and a bookcase full of reference materials, art supplies and junk.  During office hours he makes copies of famous drawings and comic book heroes; learns typing from Mario and Mavis Beacon; reads his current book; builds things out of Legos and takes apart old bits and pieces of computer hardware.  Although he does not view his office hours as particularly fun, they are at least interesting and varied and have taught him a number of useful skills and worthwhile traits.

Part of the point of Pete's office is to maintain skills he learns during the school year, and math facts are one of the things we concentrate on.  Over the years he has used many commercial basic math programs, some shareware and not a few programs which I have written for him myself.  As he is now 11, much of this stuff is now too babyish for him, and so this summer we set out to write a new program that he would look forward to using each day.  What we ended up with was Mouse Math.

Although Mouse Math will work in text mode, my primary design goal was to improve Pete's mental math abilities in the area of spoken math problems.  In school, math problems tend to be written rather than spoken, and students are encouraged to use paper and pencil to solve them.  That's fine, but in the real world, the person who can hear a problem and spit out an answer often has a distinct advantage.  Mouse Math strengthens this ability.

The whimsical pictures that you select in the main Mouse Math menu and that appear in full as you do the drills seem to keep Pete interested in using the program.  So much so that Mouse Math is the first thing he does each day, as he is always curious to see what Binky is up to.  I hope that you have a similar interest in Binky's adventures.

As to who Binky is and how Binky comes to inhabit all of these different animal bodies of unlikely size and location, that we have not quite figured out yet.  It could be that Binky is some sort of alien, or perhaps Binky is the Spirit of Whimsy set loose in the world in quest of who knows what.  If you have any ideas about who Binky is and what he or she is up to, both Pete and I would like to hear from you.

Hank Hufnagel

Clarion  June 6, 1995

How to Use Mouse Math

Help with Problems


Ack
Acknowledgments

My son Pete was the primary tester and critic of Mouse Math during development.  Thanks Pete!

The Mouse Math program was written using Microsoft Visual Basic 3, Copyright Microsoft Corporation 1993-1995.

Many of the pictures included with Mouse Math started as images from the Corel Professional Photos CD-ROM Sampler, Copyright Corel Corporation 1994.  The original photographs were edited, transformed and combined to create the 'Binky' pictures.  The software tools used to do this were a LeadTechnologies Demo Program, Serif's PhotoPlus and most of all the wonderful Logitech Fototouch Color program which came with my little hand scanner.

The sounds produced by Mouse Math were created using Creative WaveStudio, Copyright Creative Technology Ltd 1992-94.  This small program came bundled with my sound board.

How to Use Mouse Math

Help with Problems


Drill
About the Drill Screen

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•	The drill consists of the program speaking or showing a math problem and then displaying four or five possible answers on the screen in yellow boxes.  Your task is to click on the correct answer as quickly as possible.  When you select a correct answer, part of a whimsical 'Binky' picture is revealed.  The faster you click, the more parts of the picture will be revealed for each correct answer.

•	When you have answered enough problems to uncover the entire picture, the caption for the picture is spoken or displayed at the bottom of the screen.

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Click on Say to hear the current problem or picture caption spoken again.

Click on Text to show the problem or caption near the bottom of the screen.  Click Text again to remove displayed text from the screen.

Click on Help to see this Help text.

Click on Exit to return to the main Mouse Math menu.

The numeric box at the left of the drill screen shows the number of problems you have answered correctly so far.  The box at the right is the timer that shows how many seconds the program has been waiting for you to click an answer for the current problem.

The Story of Mouse Math

How to Use Mouse Math

Help with Problems


Setup
Using the Setup Menu

The Setup menu allows you to set various options of the Mouse Math program.  Your settings will be remembered the next time you run the program.

The top portion of the menu allows to select the length of each drill by selecting Child, Teen or Adult.  Other options in this portion of the menu allow you to turn the sound, text, and timer tictoc features of the Drill Screen on and off.  Xs indicate the options which are turned on.

The Problem Ranges portion of the menu lets you control the range of problems that will be asked during the drill.  When you click on a range, a keypad appears where you can click in the desired new range.  You can for instance set Addition problems to the ranges   2 to 6  +  5 to 9.  This means that the first number in the problem will range from 2 and 6, and the second will range from 5 to 9.  Thus, this pair of ranges causes problems like 2+5, 4+7 and 6+9 to be asked when Addition problems are requested in the main Mouse Math menu.  Some useful ranges are described below.

Shareware Ranges -  the Shareware Version of Mouse Math is limited to problem ranges sufficient to learn the basic math facts.  The Registered Version of Mouse Math allows much larger ranges that promote a general mastery of mental arithmetic.

Addition - ranges such as  1 to 5  +  1 to 5  are useful for learning basic addition facts.  When its time to learn the addition of the number 6, just bump the ranges up to  1 to 6  +  1 to 6.   If you want to drill on just the number 6, ranges such as  1 to 6  +  6 to 6 will insure that the number 6 is always part of each problem.

Once you have mastered the basics and have obtained the Registered Version of Mouse Math, try ranges like these to practice mental arithemetic:

1 to 10  +  20 to 30

1 to 20  +  11 to 80

11 to 99  +  11 to 99

Subtraction - to make a subtraction problem, Mouse Math first makes an addition problem using the specified addition ranges, and then converts this into a subtraction problem by switching terms around.  This insures that subtraction is always matched to the addition problems you are currently working with.

Your Change - One special case type of subtraction is allowed for in the Registered Version of Mouse Math.  If you set the addition ranges to  1 to 99  +  100 to 100 and do a subtraction drill,  the program will ask problems like 100-34,  100-67  and 100-12.  Mastery of this type of problem allows you to calculate your change from a dollar without having to rely on a calculator.

Multiplication - ranges such as  1 to 5  x  1 to 5  are useful for learning basic multiplication facts.  When its time to learn to multiply by the number 6, just bump the ranges up to  1 to 6  x  1 to 6.   If you want to drill on just the number 6, ranges such as  1 to 6  x  6 to 6 will insure that the number 6 is always part of each problem.

Division - to make a division problem, Mouse Math first makes a multiplication problem using the specified ranges, and then converts this into a division problem by switching terms around.  This insures that division is always matched to the multiplication problems you are working on.

The Story of Mouse Math

How to Use Mouse Math

Help with Problems


HHHelp
Help with Problems

Mouse Math is very simple and you should not have many problems in using it, but...

If you hear no sound it is because you do not have a sound system/driver installed correctly on your system.  If you have this problem, refer to the documentation that came with your sound card.  Once you hear the TADA sound when Windows starts, Mouse Math should start talking.

If the Binky pictures displayed after a drill are of poor quality, you probably have a black-and-white monitor, or are in a 16 color video mode.  Refer to the documentation for your video card and see if you can't select a higher color resolution.  The size of the pictures on the screen is affected by the resolution of your monitor.  Any resolution is fine, but for maximum size you should use a 640x480 mode.  Again, refer to your video card documentation for information on changing the video mode.

If you are using Windows 95, the images may not be centered in the first Mouse Math screen, and the text may appear grainy.  These cosmetic problem do not affect the operation of the program.  If you want things to look a little nicer, switch from Large Fonts to Small Fonts.  To do this click on My Computer, Control Panel and  Display.  Now click the Settings tab and select the desired font size.

If you have another problem with a registered copy of Mouse Math, get in touch with us:

Hufnagel Software

PO Box 747

Clarion PA  16214

USA

Phone: 814-226-5600	Fax:: 814-226-5551

Internet:  hank@penn.com

How to Use Mouse Math

What is Shareware

Limited Warrantee / License

Ombudsman


UseMM
How to Use Mouse Math

Mouse Math is a program which takes a slightly different approach to teaching addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.  After selecting the type of drill you want, click on one of the pictures surrounding the menu and the drill will begin.  As you click on correct answers on the Drill Screen, parts of a whimsical 'Binky' picture will appear.  When the whole picture has been cleared, you will hear a sentence, or see a caption that will bring a smile to your face.

To use the main Math Mouse menu:

•	Click on the type of problems you want.  Selected operations are marked with an X  in the ball before the name, and unselected operations have no X.

•	Click on one of the pictures which surround the Mouse Math menu.  This will cause the Drill screen to appear and the drill to begin.

Read about the Setup Menu to find out how to set the range of problems that Mouse Math will ask during a drill.

Recommended System:  To get the most out of Mouse Math, you should have a video card running in at least 256 color mode and a Windows sound driver which supports .WAV files.  Minimum System: At a minimum you need a color monitor and Windows to run Mouse Math.

The Story of Mouse Math

About the Drill Screen

Using the Setup Menu

Help with Problems

Click on Contents above to see a complete list of help topics.


ShareWare
What is Shareware

Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before buying it. If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you are expected to register. Individual programs differ on details -- some request registration while others require it, some specify a maximum trial period.  With registration, you get anything from the simple right to continue using the software to an updated program with printed manual.

Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software, and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific exceptions as stated below. Shareware authors are accomplished programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable quality. (In both cases, there are good programs and bad ones!) The main difference is in the method of distribution.  The author specifically grants the right to copy and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a specific group. For example, some authors require written permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy their Shareware.

Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software. You should find software that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether its commercial or Shareware. The Shareware system makes fitting your needs easier, because you can try before you buy.  And because the overhead is low, prices are low also. Shareware has the ultimate money-back guarantee -- if you don't use the product, you don't pay for it.

How to Use Mouse Math

Help with Problems

Limited Warrantee / License

Ombudsman


Agree
Limited Warrantee / License

THIS SOFTWARE  IS PROVIDED ON AN "AS IS" BASIS.  HUFNAGEL SOFTWARE DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES RELATINGTO THIS SOFTWARE, WHETHER EXPRESSED  OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NEITHER HUFNAGEL SOFTWARE NOR ANYONE ELSE WHO HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CREATION, PRODUCTION, OR DELIVERY OF THIS SOFTWARE SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE SUCH SOFTWARE, EVEN IF HUFNAGEL SOFTWARE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR CLAIMS.  THE PERSON USING THE SOFTWARE BEARS ALL RISK AS TO THE QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE OF THE SOFTWARE.

This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Pennsylvania and shall inure to the benefit of Hufnagel Software and any successors, administrators, heirs and assigns. Any action or proceeding brought by either party against the other arising out of or related to this agreement shall be brought only in a STATE or FEDERAL COURT of competent jurisdiction located in Clarion County, Pennsylvania. The parties hereby consent to in personam jurisdiction of said courts.

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Note: The Shareware Version License and Limited Distribution License follow the Registered Version License below.

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Registered Version License:

The Registered Version of Mouse Math has the words Registered Version prominently displayed on the main Mouse Math menu.  This is the version which we will mail to you when you send us an order and the $20 registration fee.  With the Registered Version you receive a license for use on any one computer at any one time.  You must treat the Registered Version of this software just like a book.  An example is that the registered version may be used by any number of people and may be freely moved from one computer location to another, so long as there is no possibility of it being used at one location while it's being used at another. Just as a book cannot be read by two different persons at the same time.

You may NOT make copies for your friends or otherwise distribute copies of the Registered Version of Mouse Math without first receiving written permission to do so from Hufnagel Software.

You may not use, copy, rent, lease, sell, modify, decompile, disassemble, otherwise reverse engineer, or transfer the licensed program except as provided in this agreement.  Any such unauthorized use shall result in immediate and automatic termination of this license.  All rights not expressly granted here are reserved to Hufnagel Software.

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Shareware Version License:

The Shareware Version of Mouse Math has the words Shareware Version prominently displayed on the main Mouse Math menu, and is provided at no charge to the user for evaluation.  Feel free to pass a copy of the Shareware Version of Mouse Math along to your friends for evaluation.  Please encourage them to get the Registered Version if they find Mouse Math useful.  In addition to ten more whimsical pictures, and expanded problem ranges, all registered users will receive free technical support, notice of future products and our sincere thanks.

The essence of user-supported software is to provide personal computer users with quality software without high prices, and yet to provide incentive for programmers to continue to develop new products.  If you find the Shareware Version useful, you will want to obtain the Registered Version.  To do this simply click on the Order button in the main Mouse Math menu.

The Shareware Version of Mouse Math is NOT a public domain program.  It is copyrighted by Hufnagel Software.  This software and accompanying documentation are protected by United States copyright law and also by international treaty provisions.  Hufnagel Software grants individuals a limited license to use this software for a indefinite period of time.   Educational, corporate, government and commercial users of the Shareware Version of Mouse Math must register and pay for their copies within 30 days of first use or their license is withdrawn.  Site-License arrangements may be made by contacting Hufnagel Software.

You may not use, copy, rent, lease, sell, modify, decompile, disassemble, otherwise reverse engineer, or transfer the licensed program except as provided in this agreement.  Any such unauthorized use shall result in immediate and automatic termination of this license.  All rights not expressly granted here are reserved to Hufnagel Software.

Limited Distribution License:

You may distribute the Shareware Version of Mouse Math, completely unaltered, without further permission.  To distribute in modified form, you must consult the attached data record, which is can be found in the file VENDINFO.DIZ located on the distribution disks and is hereby incorporated by reference.  Any distribution satisfying all the distribution requirements expressed in that data record is hereby authorized.

Permission to distribute the Shareware Version of Mouse Math is not transferable, assignable, saleable, or franchisable.  Each vendor wishing to distribute the package must independently satisfy the terms of this limited distribution license.

U.S. Government Information:  Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government of the computer software and documentation in this package shall be subject to the restricted rights applicable to commercial computer software as set forth in subdivision (b)(3)(ii) of the Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software clause at 252.227-7013 (DFARS 52.227-7013).  The Contractor/manufacturer is Hufnagel Software, PO Box 747, Clarion PA  16214.

Hufnagel Software may revoke any permissions granted here, by notifying you in writing.  All rights not expressly granted here are reserved to Hufnagel Software.

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How to Use Mouse Math

Help with Problems

What is Shareware

Ombudsman


Ombud
Ombudsman Statement

Hufnagel Software is a member of the Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP).  ASP wants to make sure that the shareware principle works for you.  If you are unable to resolve a shareware-related problem with an ASP member by contacting the member directly, ASP may be able to help.  The ASP Ombudsman can help you resolve a dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does not provide technical support for members' products.  Please write to the:

ASP Ombudsman

545 Grover Road,

Muskegon MI  49442-9427

USA

FAX 616-788-2765

or send a CompuServe message via CompuServe Mail to:

ASP Ombudsman 70007,3536.

How to Use Mouse Math

Help with Problems

What is Shareware

Limited Warrantee / License