How to Calculate Faster than a Calculator - Mental Maths #2| Addition and Subtraction

Introduction

This tutorial focuses on enhancing your mental math skills, specifically for addition and subtraction, allowing you to perform calculations faster than a calculator. By mastering these techniques, you can improve your mathematical agility and boost your confidence in everyday calculations.

Step 1: Understand the Basics of Mental Math

• Familiarize yourself with basic arithmetic concepts.
• Practice mental addition and subtraction with small numbers to build confidence.
• Recognize patterns in numbers that can simplify calculations.

Step 2: Use Number Decomposition

• Break down numbers into smaller, more manageable parts.
  • For example, to add 47 + 36:
    • Break 47 into 40 + 7 and 36 into 30 + 6
    • Calculate: (40 + 30) + (7 + 6) = 70 + 13 = 83
• This method reduces cognitive load and makes calculations easier.

Step 3: Practice Compensation

• Adjust numbers to make calculations easier, then compensate for the adjustment.
  • For example, to add 58 + 29:
    • Round 29 to 30 (add 1) and calculate 58 + 30 = 88
    • Compensate by subtracting the 1 you added, resulting in 88 - 1 = 87.

Step 4: Learn the Friendly Numbers Technique

• Identify pairs of numbers that easily sum to ten.
  • For instance, to add 52 + 8:
    • Recognize that 2 + 8 = 10, leading to 52 + 10 = 62.
• This technique speeds up calculations by making use of “friendly” or complementary numbers.

Step 5: Master the Use of Benchmarks

• Use round numbers as benchmarks to simplify calculations.
  • For instance, when adding 67 + 48, consider rounding 48 to 50:
    • Calculate 67 + 50 = 117, then subtract the 2 to adjust back to 115.

Step 6: Practice Regularly

• Consistent practice is key to mastering mental math.
• Set aside time daily to practice addition and subtraction using the techniques mentioned.
• Use flashcards or apps like "Math Blob Run" for engaging practice.

Conclusion

By incorporating these techniques into your daily routine, you can significantly enhance your mental math skills for addition and subtraction. Remember to practice regularly, stay patient with yourself, and build up from simpler calculations to more complex ones. As you become more comfortable, you’ll notice how quickly you can perform calculations—often faster than a calculator! Consider exploring additional resources or tutorials to further improve your skills in mental mathematics.