Speed and accuracy are the ultimate weapons to crack any competitive exam — whether it’s IBPS PO, SBI Clerk, SSC CGL, RRB, CAT, or any government job exam. And when it comes to the Quantitative Aptitude section, fast calculation is the key to success. If you often find yourself struggling with lengthy calculations or run out of time in mock tests, this guide will help you to Improve Calculation Speed . Here’s how you can sharpen your mental math skills and become faster at solving arithmetic problems.
📌 Why Calculation Speed Matters?
Most Quantitative Aptitude questions — like Simplification, Approximation, Data Interpretation, Number Series, and Arithmetic — demand quick calculations. Even a few seconds saved per question can help you attempt 5–10 extra questions, which can make all the difference in your final score.
🔟 Smart Ways to Improve Calculation Speed
1️⃣ Learn Tables up to 30
You must memorize multiplication tables up to 30. Tables up to 20 are a must, and up to 30 will give you an edge in complex calculations.
👉 Example:
17 × 8 = 136 — If you know this instantly, you’ll save time in DI and Simplification questions.
2️⃣ Master Squares & Cubes
Learn the squares up to 50 and cubes up to 30. It helps in questions related to Number Series, Algebra, and Root approximations.
| Squares | Cubes |
|---|---|
| 1² to 50² | 1³ to 30³ |
3️⃣ Practice Shortcut Tricks
Learn Vedic Math tricks and approximation techniques. Example:
- Use
(a+b)² = a² + 2ab + b²for faster calculation. - Approximate percentages mentally (e.g., 12% of 250 = 30).
4️⃣ Break Down Large Numbers
Split numbers to make mental math easier:
- 47 × 89 → (50 × 89) – (3 × 89)
5️⃣ Daily 10-Minute Practice
Dedicate 10 minutes every day to practice:
- 20 additions
- 20 subtractions
- 20 multiplications
- 20 divisions
- 10 percentage calculations
This keeps your brain sharp and increases your speed naturally.
6️⃣ Mental Addition/Subtraction Tricks
- Left-to-right addition is faster than traditional right-to-left.
Example: 478 + 239 → (400+200)+(70+30)+(8+9)
7️⃣ Learn Fraction–Percentage Equivalents
Be quick in converting percentages to fractions:
- 12.5% = 1/8
- 16.66% = 1/6
- 33.33% = 1/3
- 75% = 3/4
This saves a lot of time in DI and Percentages questions.
8️⃣ Use a Timer
Practice mock tests and calculation drills with a timer. Push yourself to improve speed without compromising accuracy.
9️⃣ Avoid Pen & Paper in Basic Practice
Try to solve simple sums without writing anything down. Train your brain to calculate mentally.
🔟 Use Mental Math Apps
There are many mobile apps that gamify calculation practice. Try apps like:
- Math Workout
- Brain Training
- Calculation Master
🎯 Bonus Tip: Accuracy Before Speed
First, build accuracy, then focus on speed. Rushing without accuracy can lead to negative marking in exams.
📚 Practice Worksheets (Optional Download)
👉 [Download Practice PDF – Daily Speed Calculation Drills]
✅ Final Words
Speed math is not magic — it’s daily practice + smart techniques. Spend just 15 minutes daily, and you’ll see significant improvement in your calculation speed within a few weeks.
Keep practicing, keep progressing!
