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Our Methodology

Every calculator on Trendy String is built on an established, publicly documented formula — never a guess. Here's how we approach building and maintaining each tool.

How We Choose a Formula

For each calculator, we start by identifying the most widely accepted, evidence-based formula for that measurement — generally the one recommended by major public health bodies (WHO, CDC, NIH) or used most often in clinical and dietetics practice. Where more than one formula is in common use, we favor the one considered more accurate for the general population, and we note this in the calculator's own page.

Examples

  • Calorie & BMR needs: the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, generally considered more accurate than the older Harris-Benedict equation for the modern population.
  • BMI: the standard WHO/CDC weight-to-height-squared ratio and category thresholds.
  • Body fat percentage: the U.S. Navy circumference method, a validated tape-measure-based estimate.
  • Heart rate zones: the widely used 220-minus-age formula for estimated maximum heart rate, with zone percentages aligned to American Heart Association guidance.
  • Due dates: Naegele's Rule, the standard clinical method, adjusted for cycle length.

What Our Calculators Are — and Aren't

Every tool on this site gives an estimate based on population-level formulas. They are not diagnostic tools, and they can't account for every individual factor (medication use, underlying conditions, unusual body composition, and so on). We design each calculator's result page to explain not just the number, but what it does and doesn't tell you — see our Journal for deeper explainers on several of our most-used tools.

Keeping Things Up to Date

Public health guidance evolves. When a major body like the WHO or CDC updates a relevant guideline, we review our calculators to make sure they still reflect current best practice.

Questions About a Specific Calculator?

Each calculator page includes a short explanation of the formula it uses, along with an FAQ addressing common questions. If something's still unclear, feel free to reach out.