Math Tricks That Will Help You Solve Problems Faster in Exams

Many test-takers struggle with time management in math exams. Spending too much time on one question can leave you rushing through the rest, increasing the risk of mistakes. By learning mental math techniques, shortcuts, and problem-solving strategies, you can improve speed and accuracy, ensuring you complete the exam within the given time.

Useful Math Tricks for Faster Problem-Solving

Multiplication Shortcuts

For quick calculations, knowing tricks for multiplying numbers can save you valuable time.

• Multiplying by 5:

  • To multiply any number by 5, simply divide the number by 2 and multiply by 10.
  • Example: 38 × 5 → 38 ÷ 2 = 19, then 19 × 10 = 190.

• Multiplying by 9:

  • Use this simple trick: Multiply by 10 and subtract the original number.
  • Example: 24 × 9 → (24 × 10) - 24 = 240 - 24 = 216.

• Squaring Numbers Ending in 5:

  • If a number ends in 5, square it easily by multiplying the first digit by itself plus one and adding 25 at the end.
  • Example: 35² → (3 × 4) = 12, then add 25 → 1225.

Division Shortcuts

• Divisibility rules can help you quickly check if a number is divisible by another number:

  • A number is divisible by 2 if its last digit is even.
  • A number is divisible by 3 if the sum of its digits is divisible by 3.
  • A number is divisible by 5 if it ends in 0 or 5.

• Dividing Large Numbers by 5:

  • Multiply the number by 2, then move the decimal point one place to the left.
  • Example: 245 ÷ 5 → 245 × 2 = 490, move the decimal → 49.0.

Addition and Subtraction Tricks

• Break numbers down for easier calculation:

  • Instead of adding directly, round numbers up or down, then adjust.
  • Example: 198 + 47 → (200 + 47) - 2 = 245.

• Subtracting from 100:

  • To quickly subtract a number from 100, subtract each digit from 9 (except the last one, which you subtract from 10).
  • Example: 100 - 63 → (9 - 6 = 3, 10 - 3 = 7) → 37.

Percentage and Fraction Tricks

• Finding 10%, 5%, or 1% Quickly:

  • To find 10% of a number, move the decimal one place to the left.
  • To find 5%, take half of 10%.
  • To find 1%, move the decimal two places to the left.
  • Example: 10% of 250 = 25, 5% of 250 = 12.5, 1% of 250 = 2.5.

• Quick Fraction to Percentage Conversions:

  • ½ = 50%
  • ⅓ ≈ 33.3%
  • ¼ = 25%
  • ⅕ = 20%

Estimating Square Roots

• If the number is between two perfect squares, estimate using those values.
  • Example: √50 is between √49 (7) and √64 (8), so the answer is close to 7.1.

Solving for X Faster in Algebraic Equations

• Use the balancing method: Whatever you do to one side of the equation, do to the other.

  • Example: Solve 3x + 6 = 15
    • Subtract 6 from both sides → 3x = 9
    • Divide by 3 → x = 3

• Cross multiplication for proportions:

  • Example: 4/7 = x/21
  • Cross multiply: 4 × 21 = 7x → 84 = 7x
  • Divide by 7 → x = 12

How to Apply These Tricks in Exams

• Practice regularly to make these tricks second nature.
• Use them when time is limited to avoid spending too long on a single question.
• Combine multiple tricks when solving complex problems to break them down faster.
• Take mock exams on brevph to test your speed and accuracy with these techniques.

Conclusion

Math doesn’t have to be complicated—by using the right tricks, shortcuts, and strategies, you can solve problems faster and with greater accuracy in your exams. Learning these techniques not only helps in time management but also boosts confidence and efficiency during tests.

With brevph, you can practice math problems, take mock exams, and apply these tricks in real test conditions, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your upcoming exam.

Start practicing smarter today and ace the math section with confidence! 🚀