In this quick tutorial I’m going to show you how to run calculations on two lists of numbers within bubble.

Why Bubble Struggles with List-Based Mathematical Operations

Bubble is a powerful no-code platform, but out of the box, it can’t handle complex mathematical calculations between two lists of numbers very easily. This limitation can be frustrating when you need to perform operations like addition, subtraction, or percentage changes across multiple data sets.

Introducing the Dual List Math Engine Plugin

At Nebulum, we created a solution called the Dual List Math engine plugin. This powerful tool allows you to enter two lists of numbers and select from various operations including:

• Addition
• Subtraction
• Multiplication
• Division
• Percent change
• Absolute difference
• Cumulative sum or product

The plugin handles all the mathematical heavy lifting for you, making complex calculations simple and efficient.

How the Plugin Handles Lists of Different Sizes

“One interesting thing about this plugin is that it was designed to intelligently handle lists of different sizes.”

When you have a shorter list and a longer list, the plugin includes an option to handle unequal list lengths by setting a padding value. This feature adds zeros either to the beginning or the end of the shorter list, based on your selection.

Solving Bubble’s Empty Value Problem

In Bubble, empty values sometimes don’t render as any numerical value. For example, if you had a comma-separated list representing weekly sales and had no sales on Tuesday, Bubble would simply show no data for that day. This can cause mathematical problems.

By default, the plugin swaps out empty values with zeros, making calculations on empty values possible and ensuring your mathematical operations run smoothly.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing the Dual List Math Engine Plugin

1. Within your Bubble app, navigate to the plugins tab
2. Search for “Dual list math engine” by Nebulum”
3. Install the plugin
4. You’re now ready to use it within your app

How to Configure and Use the Plugin

Setting Up Your Lists for Calculation

After installing the plugin, search for ‘dual list math engine’ and add the invisible element to your page. You’ll need to provide your two lists of numbers.

Pro Tip: Always display your data within input fields first so you’re not working blind. This allows you to verify that each field has the same number of values before proceeding.

Configuring Plugin Parameters

The plugin works by running calculations based on index values – the first value in both lists will be calculated together, the second values will be compared, and so on.

Key configuration options include:

• Operation selection: Choose from available mathematical operations (case sensitive)
• Rounding settings: Set decimal precision for your results
• Padding options: Handle unequal list sizes by padding with zeros at the start or end

Viewing Your Calculation Results

To see the results, simply add a new input to your page and set the initial content to your dual list math element’s result list. When you refresh the page, all calculated values will display automatically.

You can easily swap operations (addition for subtraction, division, percent change, or cumulative sum) and see new values instantly.

Why Choose Nebulum for Your No-Code Development Needs

If you’re looking for support during your no-code Bubble development journey, Nebulum offers several ways to help:

• No Code Agency services: Get your projects off the ground in record time
• Coaching services: Personalized guidance for DIY builders
• Comprehensive online course: Complete no-code development training
• Template and plugin library: Extend Bubble’s capabilities with ready-made solutions