It does all the brain work. All the algorithms and formula are intrinsic. It even allowed me to experiment with the amount of taxes owed or refunded depending on how much I put into my 401k. Great stuff.
The product worked really well, It guided me through the information I needed to include and explained changes and somewhat complex topics. This version included the rents and royalties that we needed for our tax filing.
Pros: Easy to prepare, Maximizes refund, Easy to import documents, Fast
The HR Block software is opaque - the precise categories for income entry are stacked in a way that makes double entry almost inevitable due to the labeling, invisible calculations and referencing between "interview" and forms. One will have to use the "whole form" viewer during review to assure there are no double entries or null-set sources of income, which will trigger errors.
I've used the program for many years, and appreciate the consistency year after year despite changes in the tax code. I've never had a significant problem.