0Top 5 Math Shortcuts to Crack Engineering Entrance Exams
Engineering entrance tests demand speed as much as accuracy. Mastering a few quick methods can save valuable minutes in every section. Below are five practical shortcuts to boost your problem-solving efficiency.
- Vedic Math for Rapid Multiplication
The “Vertically and Crosswise” method from Vedic Mathematics allows large number multiplication in seconds.
Example: To multiply 97 by 96, think of both as “100 minus a small number.” Subtract crosswise: 97 minus 4 gives 93. Multiply the small numbers: 3 times 4 gives 12. Combine to get 9312. This trick is especially helpful in coordinate geometry or probability questions with big numbers.
- Square and Cube Memory Tricks
Memorize squares up to 30 and cubes up to 20. For numbers ending in 5, use this mental step: take the first digit or digits, multiply by the next higher number, and then add 25 at the end.
Example: For 35 squared, multiply 3 by 4 to get 12 and write 25 after it to get 1225. This saves time in algebraic expansions and quadratic problems.
- Fast Logarithm Simplification
Learn three core properties: adding logs turns into a single log of a product, subtracting logs becomes a single log of a quotient, and a power can move in front as a multiplier. Many exam questions look lengthy but collapse to one step when you apply these properties.
- Trigonometric Value Memory Map
Remember the standard angles 0, 30, 45, 60 and 90 degrees using the simple “square-root pattern.” For example, the sine values move from 0 to 1 in equal steps while the cosine values reverse. This avoids calculator use and is vital for fast answers in topics like wave motion or alternating currents.
- Option Elimination and Approximation
Multiple-choice questions often allow quick estimation. Start by checking the middle option since choices are usually arranged in order. Use dimensional reasoning or rough magnitude checks to remove unlikely answers without full calculation.
Practice Tip
Shortcuts only help when they are second nature. Spend about fifteen minutes daily on timed drills and revision of these methods. Combining speed with accuracy gives you a clear advantage in any engineering entrance exam.
