Abstract: To reduce the number of keys on a calculator keyboard (22), two symbols representing possible operations or key actions are associated with each key (24) of a plurality of keys. The calculator (20) is programmed (30) to determine which key action is selected to be performed. The symbol representing the selected key action may be displayed on a display screen (28) if appropriate. The program (30) determines which key action is selected in response to a predetermined pattern of pressing a key (24) during a pending period that begins with the initial press of the key (24). The user may adjust the length of the pending period. The presence of the pending period is indicated on the calculator display screen (28) by a cursor (61). Alpha characters may thus be entered into the calculator (20) without the need for an additional keyboard or calculator modes.