Should students learn the tips and tricks in Math to reduce the time spent on calculations? Math is not limited to the classroom. Many Math tricks have practical applications in everyday life like calculating discounts, budgeting, or splitting expenses. Students who are familiar with these techniques can apply them in real-world situations, making their daily lives more efficient and convenient.
However, it’s important to note that while Math tricks are beneficial, they should be taught alongside a solid foundation in mathematical concepts. Students should understand the underlying principles and reasoning behind the tricks, rather than relying solely on memorisation. This balance ensures that students develop both efficient calculation skills and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.
According to Jyoti Khanna, PRT (Math), who teaches classes II to VI at Apeejay School, Model Town, learning how to calculate is a crucial skill for students to master in school. “Not only is it important for success in Math classes, but it also has practical applications in everyday life,” she opined and said that there are some students who struggle with the subject and find it challenging.
“For those students who struggle with calculation, here are a few tips that can help them master this important skill. One of the most important things for mastering any skill is practice. Therefore, I suggest to every student to practice mental Math and calculations regularly. They can set a timer for a set of problems to complete in a fixed amount of time. It is also important to memorise all tables and square charts,” Khanna advised and said that students “should not rely solely on calculators as it can prevent students from developing their skills and understanding.”
But once the student has his/her concepts clear as they move to higher classes, there are several benefits of learning some tricks that can ease the time spent on calculations for questions where these are just a part of a very complicated Math problem.
One of the most important things for mastering any skill is practice. Therefore, I suggest to every student to practice mental Math and calculations regularly. They can set a timer for a set of problems to complete in a fixed amount of time. It is also important to memorise all tables and square charts
–Jyoti Khanna, PRT (Math) at Apeejay School, Model Town
There are several advantages of learning these tips
Efficiency: Mental math techniques, shortcuts for multiplication, division, or fractions, and strategies for simplifying complex problems can save time, especially in time-constrained situations like exams or tests.
Confidence building: Being able to quickly and accurately solve math problems boosts students’ confidence in their mathematical abilities.
Problem-solving skills: Math tricks often involve logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and critical thinking. By learning these techniques, students develop problem-solving skills that can be applied not only in Math but also in various other areas of their academic and professional lives.
Engagement and enjoyment: Discovering new shortcuts, finding creative solutions, and experiencing the satisfaction of quick and accurate calculations can foster a positive attitude towards the subject.
And what are these tricks?
1. Suppose you are asked to add 10 consecutive numbers? Take an example – Add 166 +167+168+169+170+171+172+173+174+175.
Add 4 to the smallest number. In this case it is 166= 170 (166+4). Add 5 next to it. Your answer= 1705
Take another example – Add 72+73+74+75+76+77+78+79+80+81.
Add 4 to the smallest number. In this case it is 72= 76 (72+4). Add 5 next to it. Your answer=765
2. Suppose you have to multiply three numbers with two. In this, multiply from left to right, rather the traditional right to left. Take an example – Multiply 568 X 7.
By multiplying left to right – 7 X 5=35
Then multiply 7 x 6=42. Write 4 below 5 and then write 2.
Multiply 7 X 8=56. Write 5 below 2 and then write 6. Write these in order adding them. First comes 3; add 5 and 4=9; add 2 and 5=7; then write 6. Your answer=3976
3. Suppose you have to add natural numbers. Take an example – Add 1 to 10. The trick is simple. Take the largest number. In this case it is 10. Half this number=5 and then write 5 next to it. Your answer=55
Take another example – Add 1 to 1,000. Take the largest number=1,000. Half it=500. Write another 500. Your answer=5,00,500
4. Suppose you have to find the percentage of a number? Take an example – 7% of 209. Multiple 7×2=14; 7×9=63. Write the two numbers – 1463. Since it is a percentage, the answer is 14.63.
5. Suppose you have to find a square root? Take an example – What is the square root of 196? Add the numbers 1+9+6=16. Subtract 2 from it – 16-2=14. That is your answer. However, remember that these tricks only work under certain situations. Therefore, it is important to first understand the concept and logic behind these.
“Following tips and tricks are advisable for students as they move to higher classes where calculations are only a part of the complex Math questions. But even then, it is important to understand how and why this tip works. There are rules here as well that need to be followed,” Khanna said in conclusion.