Free GrandTotal: Understanding the Difference Between Subtotal and Total

When it comes to calculating prices on bills or receipts, you may have come across two terms: subtotal and total. While they are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle but important difference between the two.

Subtotal is easily the most popular choice of the three, though it's always up to your own personal preference which version you'd rather use when the time comes. However, if you want to write 'subtotal' correctly, it's essential to use one spelling and only one to do so. You may sometimes see 'sub-total' written, even though it's incorrect.

Subtotal refers to a partial sum of numbers that does not include all aspects of a bill or receipt. It combines certain elements such as prices, discounts, taxes, etc., but excludes others. On the other hand, total is the overall and final sum of a list of numbers.

One easy way to remember the difference between subtotal and total is to think about which one is higher. Subtotal is always lower than total because it only accounts for a part of the bill or receipt, whereas total is the absolute end sum.

In summary, 'subtotal' should be used when talking about the total of a set of numbers that isn't the final sum, while 'total' should be used when you're talking about the absolute end sum. By understanding this difference, you can avoid accidentally using the wrong term and ensure accurate calculations on your bills or receipts.