How do estimations benefit students in mathematical activities?

Estimations benefit students in mathematical activities primarily by enhancing their mental calculation skills. When students practice estimating, they learn to make quick, rough calculations that help them determine whether a certain answer is reasonable, without the need for exact calculations or the use of a calculator. This not only boosts their confidence in handling numbers but also sharpens their ability to think critically about the size and scale of numbers, which is an essential aspect of problem-solving in mathematics.

Through estimation, students are encouraged to assess numeric values in a way that is more relatable and applicable to real-world situations. For example, by estimating sums or products, they can quickly evaluate whether an answer in a context makes sense, which is a valuable skill in everyday decision-making. This process also promotes mental agility and reinforces number sense, which is crucial for developing more advanced mathematical concepts and strategies.

The other options do not encapsulate the fundamental advantage of estimation in fostering cognitive abilities related to calculations as effectively as this choice does.