About Tot Up

Tot Up is a free daily numbers game for the morning coffee. Each day brings three targets: a Warm-up, a Classic and a Brain-burner. For each one you get six numbers and 60 seconds, and you combine them with + − × ÷ to get as close to the target as you can. How to play has the rules and scoring in full, with worked rounds.

Who it’s for

Tot Up is made for people who grew up shouting at the telly during the numbers round, and who still can’t resist having a go. It’s also good practice for students working on their mental maths, for example before a non-calculator GCSE or National 5 maths paper, and for the parents helping them. Sharpen your mental maths has techniques to try. Tot Up isn’t connected with any TV programme or exam board.

Why it’s built this way

• One go a day. Three one-minute rounds fit a coffee or a commute. New numbers arrive at midnight UK time, so there’s always tomorrow.
• Everyone gets the same numbers. That makes scores fair to compare, and gives you something to talk about afterwards.
• A table of people near you. In the UK, once you tap Use my location, your score goes on your council area’s table, like Inverclyde or Croydon. That way you’re up against people near you, and enough of them to make a contest. Outside the UK it’s your city. There’s a table for everyone too, and a weekly one.
• Leagues for family and work. Start a league, share its link in the group chat, and anyone who opens it joins.
• Every target can be made. Tot Up builds each target from the numbers it deals, so there’s always a way. If you miss, it shows you one.

Fair play

The server deals each round’s numbers only when that round starts, and times it on its own clock. When you finish, it replays your moves to check every answer. Nobody sees the numbers early, and every score on the tables has been checked.

Who makes it

Tot Up is made and run by Darren Anderson, one person in the UK. There are no accounts and nothing to sign up for. You play in your browser, and you can add Tot Up to your home screen. The privacy page explains what the game keeps about you, and you can get in touch by email.

How it’s paid for

Tot Up is free to play. Tips go towards the hosting, so if you enjoy the game, you can buy me a coffee on Ko-fi. It may also show adverts from Google. The privacy page explains how they work and the choices you have.