The session examines the traditional algorithms for the four basic operations of mathematics (addition, subtraction, division and multiplication) and uses examples to explain the reasons for error patterns that occur in hand computation (Ashlock 2009). It focuses on long division as the most difficult operation for children to understand and zeroes in on the algorithm introduced by Henry Briggs (1561-1630) as the root cause of the conflict between educational reformers and traditionalists (Rogers 2011; Wilson 2008). It explains how a new algorithm that breaks up the divisor into multiple terms is far easier to use in practice because it dissolves the blame game between educational reformers and traditionalists and shows that long division is really very simple with the right algorithm. It rigorously and thoroughly reinforces the fact that it's Briggs algorithm and not the teachers or students who are to blame for all of the errors in hand computation.