HOW TO APPROACH SPEED MATHS FOR BANKING EXAM SUCCESS IN DETAIL

Why Speed Maths is Important?

Banking exams are all about accuracy under pressure. You have:

• ~20 minutes to solve 35 questions in prelims.
• Less than 40 seconds per question on average.
  Speed Maths helps you:
• Save time on basic calculations.
• Improve accuracy.
• Attempt more questions confidently.

 Core Components of Speed Maths

1. Multiplication Tricks

• Use Vedic Maths sutras like:
  1. “Vertically and Crosswise” for two-digit multiplication.
  2. Example: 32×3432 × 3432×34
     Step 1: 3×3=93×3 = 93×3=9
     Step 2: Cross add: 3×4+3×2=12+6=183×4 + 3×2 = 12 + 6 = 183×4+3×2=12+6=18
     Step 3: 2×4=82×4 = 82×4=8
     Combine: 9 | 18 | 8 → 1088
• Multiplication near base numbers (like 100, 1000):
  104×107=(100+4)(100+7)=100(104+7)+(4×7)=11128104 × 107 = (100 + 4)(100 + 7) = 100(104 + 7) + (4×7) = 11128104×107=(100+4)(100+7)=100(104+7)+(4×7)=11128

2. Division Shortcuts

• Use long division approximations.
• Memorize tables and key fraction-decimal conversions: = 0.5 ,   ≈ 0.333

3. Squares and Cubes

• Memorize:
  1. Squares up to 50
  2. Cubes up to 20
• Tricks:
  1. (a+1)²=a²+2a+1
  2. (a−1)²=a²−2a+1

4. Percentage to Fraction Conversions

Very helpful in DI, Percentages, and Profit & Loss:

5. Addition & Subtraction Tricks

• Use complementary numbers:
  1. 999−456=543999 – 456 = 543999−456=543
  2. Use round numbers for quick addition:
     • 598+327=(600+325)=925598 + 327 = (600 + 325) = 925598+327=(600+325)=925

6. Approximation Techniques

• Round off numbers:
  1. 19.98×4.99≈20×5=10019.98 × 4.99 ≈ 20 × 5 = 10019.98×4.99≈20×5=100
• Eliminate options using estimation.

7. Number Series Patterns

• Speed Maths helps you:
  1. Quickly test arithmetic, geometric, and quadratic patterns.
  2. Recognize squares, cubes, and prime number patterns.

Mental Math Must-Know Tables

Regular Practice Areas

Tips for Mastering Speed Maths

1. Practice 15–20 mins daily on calculation drills.
2. Use a timer and aim for accuracy under speed.
3. Use a rough sheet effectively during mock tests.
4. Maintain a Speed Maths Formula Notebook.
5. Focus on simplification, number sense, and elimination techniques.

 Sample Problem – Use Speed

Q: What is approx. 498×0.52498 × 0.52498×0.52?

• Round: 500×0.5=250500 × 0.5 = 250500×0.5=250
• Answer ≈ 250

Recommended Resources

Apps/Websites:

• Magme Medal Speed Tests
• Speed Maths Quizzes
• PracticeMock, Testbook, Gradeup Speed Practice Sections

 Books:

• Arithmetic by Magme Medal
• Quantitative Aptitude by Magme Medal
• Maths by Magme Medal

 Final Strategy