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  • Expressions:

1) They count with their mind instead of using PC (with their brain)

2) They count in their mind instead of using PC (with their brain)

I surfed the internet to find some at least, similar expression but didn't succeed

  • Question:

What expression is right?

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  • What are you trying to describe here? Silent mental counting, as opposed to counting aloud?
    – J.R. ♦
    Commented Jul 2, 2017 at 18:31
  • 4
    The idiom is "she added the numbers up in her head".
    – TimR
    Commented Jul 2, 2017 at 19:01

2 Answers 2

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First off, I think that the verb to count doesn't work well in the context of making mathematicalензщ calculations using your intellectual ability, in other words--solving math problems mentally. The process may also be reffered to as "mental maths" or mental arithmetic that is doing calculations in your mind, without writing down any numbers. If you google for "calculate mentally" or "mentally calculate", you'll find lots of examples.

Also, see the " in one's head" phrase which in your case hits the bull's eye, as Tromano pointed out in his comment:

He was great with math and could give you batting averages calculated in his head. (the source)

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  • I was counting the numbers up in my mind when the doorbell rang.
    – Lambie
    Commented Apr 25, 2019 at 22:52
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The correct expression is "to count in mind":

  • They count in their minds instead of using the PC. (Correct)

Here is a Google search with examples:

  • Math Master will help you to learn to count in your mind quickly and without errors, develop abstract and logical thinking.

  • ...ancient abacus method - the ability to count large numbers in the mind easily and quickly, which ensures a significant development of child's mental abilities.

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  • 2
    "You cannot count with your mind" -- try counting without your mind. :-)
    – fixer1234
    Commented Jul 2, 2017 at 18:16
  • @fixer1234 I agree +1
    – SovereignSun
    Commented Jul 2, 2017 at 20:05
  • I don't think the difference is that clear cut. If you can count with your fingers, why not count with your mind?
    – user3169
    Commented Jul 2, 2017 at 20:11
  • Of course, you can say: I was counting the numbers in my mind. But not with my mind. Jeepers creepers. Makes the mind sound like an appendage.
    – Lambie
    Commented Apr 25, 2019 at 22:42

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