Vedic Math tricks is a practical starting point for anyone who wants to calculate faster, more accurately, and with greater confidence, without relying on lengthy written steps; in this guide, you will learn vedic maths tricks that strengthen number sense and improve performance in school and competitive exams, including vedic maths multiplication tricks that simplify common products into quick, repeatable patterns and addition vedic maths tricks that help you handle sums, carry-overs, and mental adjustments with ease, along with curated vedic maths books to support structured learning and consistent practice.
Vedic Maths Tricks For Competitive Examinations: 3 Step-by-Step Methods
1) Trick: Multiply a 2-digit number from 11 to 20 (fast mental method)
Best used when: both numbers are between 11 and 20 (especially in timed tests).
Steps (as commonly taught in this method):
- Add the larger number to the unit digit of the smaller number.
- Multiply the answer from Step 1 by 10.
- Multiply the unit digits of both numbers.
- Add the results from Step 2 and Step 3.
Worked example: 14 × 18
- Step 1: Larger number is 18; unit digit of 14 is 4 ⇒ 18 + 4 = 22
- Step 2: 22 × 10 = 220
- Step 3: 4 × 8 = 32
- Step 4: 220 + 32 = 252
Why it’s fast: you reduce “full multiplication” to (a) one addition, (b) one easy ×10 shift, and (c) a one-digit product.
2) Trick: Multiply numbers close to a power of 10 (Nikhilam, same-side case)
Best used when: both numbers are close to 10, 100, 1000…, and typically lie on the same side of that base (both slightly less, or both slightly more).
Steps:
- Find the difference (deviation) of each number from the closest power of 10, then multiply those deviations.
- Add one of the numbers to the deviation of the other number (i.e., add/subtract the deviation depending on whether the number is below/above the base).
- The final answer is obtained by joining the Step 2 result (left part) with the Step 1 result (right part).
Worked example: 93 × 96 (base 100)
- Deviations from 100: 93 is −7, 96 is −4
- Step 1: (−7) × (−4) = 28
- Step 2: 93 + (−4) = 89 (equivalently, 96 + (−7) = 89)
- Step 3: Join 89 | 28 ⇒ 8928
Quick check: 93 × 96 = 8928 (correct).
Practical tip: When the base is 100 (two zeros), the right part should be two digits. If the deviation product is 7, write it as 07.
3) Trick: Divide when the divisor is smaller and close to a power of 10 (Nikhilam division)
Best used when: divisor is close to 10, 100, 1000… and smaller than that base (e.g., 9, 98, 997).
Steps:
- Identify how much short the divisor is from a power of 10.
- Split the dividend into Quotient part and Remainder part; the remainder has the same number of digits as the divisor.
- Multiply the first digit of the quotient part by the number from Step 1, and add it to the unit’s digit of the quotient part.
- Multiply the number obtained from Step 3 by the Step 1 number, and add it to the remainder part.
- If the remainder is ≥ divisor, divide again and add to the quotient; the new remainder is final.
Worked example: 341 ÷ 9
- Step 1: 9 is short of 10 by 1
- Step 2: Split 341 as 34 | 1 (quotient part 34, remainder 1)
- Step 3: First digit of quotient part is 3 ⇒ 3 × 1 + 4 = 7 ⇒ quotient becomes 37
- Step 4: 7 × 1 + 1 = 8 ⇒ remainder becomes 8
- Step 5: 8 < 9 ⇒ stop
Result: 341 ÷ 9 = 37 remainder 8.
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Most Recommended Vedic Mathematics Books for Competitive Exams
When it comes to preparing for competitive exams, having a strong foundation in mathematics is crucial. With its unique and efficient techniques, Vedic Mathematics has become increasingly popular among students preparing for various competitive exams. Here are some of the most recommended Vedic Mathematics books to guide you on your journey to success.
| Book Title | Author | Summary / Why it’s useful | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vedic Mathematics Made Easy | Dhaval Bathia | Clear, concise introduction to core concepts, techniques, and shortcuts; step-by-step explanations with many examples to build fundamentals. | Beginners; learners building a strong foundation |
| Magical Book on Quicker Maths | M. Tyra | Broad coverage of mathematical topics including Vedic techniques; detailed methods plus extensive practice exercises and solved examples to improve speed and accuracy. | Learners seeking depth + lots of practice |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal | Competitive-exam focused; includes Vedic methods alongside arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation; rich practice sets, model papers, and previous-year questions. | Competitive exam preparation |
| Vedic Mathematics for Schools | James T. Glover | School-student oriented, systematic and self-study friendly; many examples, exercises, and practice problems for applying Vedic tricks. | School students; structured learning |
| Vedic Mathematics for All Ages: A Beginner’s Guide | Vandana Singhal | Beginner guide for all age groups; fundamentals with step-by-step explanations and practice exercises aimed at improving mental calculation speed and accuracy. | Beginners of any age; mental math development |
| Magical Methods: Vedic Mathematics Made Easy | M. Tyra | Simplifies learning using easy explanations and illustrative examples; includes practice exercises and time-saving tips, aligned with exam needs. | Competitive exam aspirants; practical application |
| Vedic Mathematics: Myths and Facts | Pradeep Kumar | Explains principles and techniques while addressing myths and misconceptions; positions Vedic maths with practical applications for exams. | Learners wanting context + application; exam students |
Vedic Mathematics Examples to Solve at Home
Practising Vedic Mathematics at home can be an enjoyable and rewarding way to enhance your mathematical skills. Here are a few Vedic Mathematics examples that you can try out in the comfort of your own home:
- Multiplication using the "Vertically and Crosswise" Technique:
Example: Multiply 35 by 45
Step 1: Draw a vertical line to separate the digits:
3 5
x 4 5
Step 2: Multiply the digits diagonally and write the results:
3 5
x 4 5
-------
1 5 (3 multiplied by 5)
+ 1 5 (5 multiplied by 4)
Step 3: Add the results to get the final answer:
3 5
x 4 5
-------
= 1 5 7 5
- Squaring a Two-Digit Number:
Example: Square 32
Step 1: Decompose the number into its tens and units digit: 32 = 30 + 2
Step 2: Square the tens digit and write the result: 3 squared = 09
Step 3: Multiply the tens digit by the units digit and double the result: 3 * 2 * 2 = 12
Step 4: Write the units digit squared: 2 squared = 04
Step 5: Combine the results: 09 | 12 | 04 = 1024
- Finding Square Roots using the "Nikhilam" Method:
Example: Find the square root of 3249
Step 1: Start with the leftmost digit and find the nearest square number: The nearest square number to 3 is 1, so we take 1 as the first digit.
Step 2: Subtract the square of the first digit from the leftmost digits of the number: 3249 - 1^2 = 3248
Step 3: Repeat the process with the next pair of digits: The next pair is 24. The largest number whose square is less than or equal to 3248 is 5, so we take 5 as the next digit.
Step 4: Subtract the square of the second digit from the remaining digits: 3248 - 5^2 = 3198
Step 5: Continue the process until all the digits are covered. In this example, the square root of 3249 is 57.
- Multiplication by 11
Example: Multiply 24 by 11
Step 1: Add the two digits of the original number: 2 + 4 = 6
Step 2: Place the result (6) in between the original digits: 2 | 6 | 4
Step 3: The final answer is 264.
The rise of Vedic Maths coaching is tightly connected to time-pressured testing environments where speed in arithmetic/mental calculation offers a tangible advantage. Scholarly and reference discussions note its proliferation in publications and education initiatives, alongside ongoing debate about framing and claims.
- Squaring a Three-Digit Number Ending in 5:
Example: Square 175
Step 1: Take the first two digits (17) and multiply it by the next consecutive number (18): 17 * 18 = 306
Step 2: Write down the result: 306
Step 3: Append the square of the last digit (5 squared = 25) at the end: 30625
Step 4: The final answer is 30625.
- Division by 9:
Example: Divide 648 by 9
Step 1: Add the digits of the original number: 6 + 4 + 8 = 18
Step 2: Continue adding the digits until you get a single-digit result: 1 + 8 = 9
Step 3: The final answer is 72.
- Checking Divisibility by 3:
Example: Determine if 3456 is divisible by 3
Step 1: Add the digits of the original number: 3 + 4 + 5 + 6 = 18
Step 2: If the sum is divisible by 3 (in this case, it is), then the original number is also divisible by
How to Improve Vedic Mathematics at Home
Improving your skills in Vedic Mathematics at home is a great way to enhance your mental calculation abilities and speed up your problem-solving skills. Here are a few tips to help you improve in Vedic Mathematics:
- Practice regularly: Set aside dedicated time each day or week to practise different Vedic Maths techniques so you steadily build comfort and proficiency.
- Start with the basics: Learn foundational techniques first, understand the basic sutras (formulas) and their applications, then move gradually to advanced concepts.
- Work on speed and accuracy: Focus on improving both; begin with simpler problems and increase difficulty over time to challenge yourself without losing precision.
- Solve sample problems: Practise a wide range of questions across addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to build versatility and confidence.
- Explore resources: Use Vedic Maths books, online tutorials, and practice materials for extra explanations, examples, and exercises to deepen understanding.
- Seek guidance if needed: If you get stuck, consult an experienced teacher or tutor for clarification, personalised instruction, and targeted support.
- Keep a positive mindset: Progress comes from consistency; enjoy learning new techniques and applying them to solve problems more quickly and efficiently.
Benefits of Vedic Mathematics
Vedic Mathematics offers numerous benefits that can enhance your mathematical abilities and problem-solving skills. Here are some key advantages of practising Vedic Mathematics:
Speed and Efficiency
Vedic Mathematics techniques are designed to simplify complex calculations and speed up the problem-solving process. Using specific sutras (formulas) and mental calculation methods allows you to perform calculations swiftly and accurately, saving valuable time in competitive exams or real-life situations.
Mental Agility
Vedic Mathematics promotes mental calculations, eliminating the need to rely heavily on pen and paper or calculators. Regular practice of Vedic Math techniques improves mental agility, enhances concentration, and boosts overall calculation speed and accuracy.
Flexibility and Versatility
Vedic Mathematics offers versatile techniques for various mathematical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square roots, and cube roots. These techniques provide multiple approaches to solving a problem, allowing you to choose the most efficient method based on the given scenario.
Simplified Concepts
Vedic Mathematics simplifies complex mathematical concepts by breaking them down into simpler steps. This makes learning and understanding mathematics easier and more accessible, particularly for students who struggle with traditional methods. Vedic Math techniques often provide intuitive and visual explanations that make abstract concepts more tangible.
Problem-Solving Skills
Vedic Mathematics nurtures logical and analytical thinking, encouraging finding alternative problem-solving approaches and patterns. It fosters creativity, promotes critical thinking, and enhances problem-solving skills, which are valuable in mathematics and various fields that require analytical reasoning.
Fun and Engaging
Vedic Mathematics introduces playful and interactive methods that make learning mathematics enjoyable and engaging. The unique techniques, tricks, and patterns involved in Vedic Math add an element of intrigue and excitement, making the learning process more interesting and motivating.
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