How we calculate
Each period, the accumulated balance earns interest, and that interest becomes part of the balance that earns interest in the next period.
Formula used
M is the final amount, P is the principal, i is the periodic rate, n is the number of periods, and PMT is the periodic contribution.
M = P × (1 + i)ⁿ + PMT × (((1 + i)ⁿ − 1) / i)
Practical example
R$ 1,000 with no contributions at 1% monthly for 12 months results in about R$ 1,126.83.
How to interpret the result
'Total invested' is what you put in; 'total interest' is what was earned on top of it.
Limitations
Assumes a constant rate and fixed contributions. Does not account for inflation, fees, or taxes. Treat the result as an estimate.