Logarithm tables and a slide rule can be constructed to one‐figure accuracy in a few moments of simple calculation by an individual. A group of students with the aid of tables of roots and powers can quickly achieve two‐digit accuracy. By using compound‐interest tables, three‐digit accuracy may be achieved without undue effort. No knowledge of infinite series or other advanced topics is necessary, and indeed experimental search for a way of multiplying by addition can be carried through successfully without the logarithm concept or as an introduction to it. The paper sketches some possible classroom procedures and gives examples of the devices that may be discovered by the student.