The first critical step in doing calculations with significant digits is to make sure that the data you are using is correctly recorded.   Since significant figures are a method of keeping track of the amount of error in experimental results, they only apply to experimental measurements.  Some numbers are exact, and are not affected by the number of significant digits.

Every result of a calculation that involves experimental results -- whether addition, subtraction, multiplication or division -- must report its results correctly using significant digits.

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