Get fast at Mental Math
- Reva Diwan
- Jan 30, 2023
- 2 min read
Mental math is the ability to perform calculations in your head quickly and accurately. It’s a useful skill for everyday life and can also be an impressive party trick. Here are some tips on how to improve your mental math skills.
1. PRACTICE REGULARLY
The more you practice, the better you will get. Make a habit of using mental math in everyday situations, such as when shopping or calculating tips.
2. USE MENTAL MATH SHORTCUTS
There are many mental math shortcuts that can help you solve problems faster. For example, when adding numbers close to multiples of 10, you can round them to the nearest 10 and then adjust the answer. Here are a few more:
Doubling and halving
When multiplying or dividing by 2, double or halve one of the numbers and then adjust the answer.
Left-to-right method
Start solving the problem from left to right, instead of starting from the right-most digit.
Breaking down numbers
Breaking down a large number into smaller, easier to work with numbers, makes mental math easier.
Subtraction facts
Memorizing subtraction facts, such as 9 minus 7 is 2, can make it easier to subtract larger numbers in your head.
Near-decade numbers
When adding or subtracting numbers close to multiples of 100, think of them as multiples of 100 and then adjust the answer. For example, instead of thinking of 97, think of 100 and then subtract 3.
3. MEMORIZE MATH FACTS
Memorizing basic math facts, such as multiplication tables, can help you solve problems faster because you won’t have to spend time figuring out the answer.
4. IMPROVE YOUR MEMORY
A good memory is crucial for mental math. You can improve your memory by using mnemonic devices, such as rhymes or acrostics, to remember math facts.
5. PRACTICE WITH GAMES AND PUZZLES
There are many games and puzzles that can help you improve your mental math skills, such as Sudoku or KenKen.
6. USE VISUALIZATION
Visualizing the problem in your head can help you solve it more easily. For example, when multiplying, you can visualize arrays or arrays of dots to help you understand the problem.
7. BE CONFIDENT
Confidence is key when it comes to mental math. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and don’t let fear hold you back.
By following these tips, you can improve your mental math skills and become faster at performing calculations in your head. So, keep practicing, stay confident, and have fun!
Comments