Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
• GMAT arithmetic tricks help solve questions faster with simple, time-saving methods.
• Use estimation and rounding techniques to speed up basic calculations.
• Convert fractions to decimals quickly for easier comparison and solving.
• Apply shortcut rules for percentages and ratios to save time in quant.
Are You Still Calculating GMAT Problems the Hard Way? What if I told you that 73% of GMAT test-takers fail to reach their target score simply because they're doing arithmetic the long way? Picture this: You're 45 minutes into the quantitative section, palms sweating, and you're still manually calculating 18% of 250 while the clock mercilessly ticks away. Sound familiar?
These time-saving arithmetic tricks aren't just about speed – they're your competitive advantage. When you can calculate 15% of 240 or simplify fractions like 72/96 in seconds, you'll have more mental bandwidth for complex problem-solving and maximize your quantitative score.
In this blog, we’ll cover gmat arithmetic tricks that help you solve questions faster and more accurately. These tricks are simple, easy to remember, and perfect for boosting your score in less time.
Key GMAT Arithmetic Tricks to Master
To excel in the GMAT quantitative section, mastering GMAT arithmetic tricks is essential. The GMAT is designed to test your problem-solving skills, often under time constraints, making it important to use strategies that speed up your calculations while maintaining accuracy. Here are some of the most effective tricks that can boost your arithmetic performance:
Estimation and Rounding Techniques
Many GMAT arithmetic problems involve complex calculations, but exact answers are not always needed. Learning to round numbers or using estimation techniques can help you save time and quickly eliminate wrong answers. These GMAT arithmetic tricks can be particularly useful in word problems where approximation is sufficient.
Percentages Made Easy
Handling percentages is a frequent requirement in GMAT questions. A simple trick is to find 10% of a number by moving the decimal one place to the left. This allows for faster calculations of discounts or interest rates without struggling with complex decimals. Applying GMAT arithmetic tricks like this can make a big difference in your speed.
Handling Ratios and Proportions
Ratios and proportions appear often in GMAT problems. A quick method is cross-multiplication, which lets you solve these equations more quickly and avoid errors. Understanding how to manipulate ratios is one of the key GMAT arithmetic tricks you should master to handle these types of questions efficiently.
Simplifying Fractions
Being able to simplify fractions or convert them into decimals is another time-saving trick. For example, recognizing that 1/4 equals 0.25 or 1/3 is roughly 0.33 can speed up your calculations, especially in data sufficiency questions. Mastering GMAT arithmetic tricks like fraction simplification is key to tackling quantitative problems with confidence.
By mastering these GMAT arithmetic tricks, you’ll be able to approach GMAT preparation with confidence, solving them more efficiently while improving your overall score
Speed Addition and Subtraction Techniques
One of the most essential skills to master for the GMAT is the ability to add and subtract quickly. These operations come up frequently, and being able to handle them with speed and accuracy will help save time for more complex questions. The key to success is learning GMAT arithmetic tricks that simplify calculations and help avoid long, manual processes.
1. Rounding Method:
For quick addition/subtraction, round numbers to the nearest 10 or 100.
Example:
473 + 89 ≈ 470 + 90 = 560
Adjust: 560 - 2 = 558
2. Complements of 10:
Break down numbers to make 10s.
Example:
48 + 72 = (50 + 70) - 2 = 118
| Technique | Example |
|---|---|
| Rounding | 473 + 89 → 470 + 90 = 560 - 2 |
| Complements of 10 | 48 + 72 → (50 + 70) - 2 = 118 |
Quick Multiplication and Division Methods for GMAT
Mastering fast multiplication and division techniques is essential for the GMAT's quantitative section. These GMAT arithmetic tricks can help you solve problems more efficiently:
1. Multiplication by Powers of 10
Simply shift the decimal point when multiplying by 10, 100, or 0.1:
350 × 0.1 = 35 2500 ÷ 100 = 25
2. Divide by 5 Trick
To divide by 5 quickly, divide by 10 first, then multiply by 2:
45 ÷ 5 = (45 ÷ 10) × 2 = 4.5 × 2 = 9
3. Doubling and Halving for Multiplication
Halve one number and double the other to make multiplication easier:
16 × 25 = 8 × 50 = 400
| Technique | Application |
|---|---|
| Multiplication by Powers of 10 | Shift the decimal point to multiply/divide by 10, 100, or 0.1. |
| Divide by 5 Trick | Divide by 10, then multiply by 2 for faster division. |
| Doubling and Halving | Halve one number and double the other for easier multiplication. |
These GMAT arithmetic tricks will help you save time and increase accuracy during the exam.
Shortcut for Handling Fractions and Decimals
Mastering fractions and decimals is key for the GMAT. These GMAT arithmetic tricks can help you handle conversions quickly and accurately:
1. Converting Fractions to Decimals
Divide the numerator by the denominator:
Example: 3/4 = 0.75
2. Converting Decimals to Fractions
Move the decimal point, then place it over a power of 10:
Example: 0.5 = 5/10 = 1/2 Example: 0.75 = 75/100 = 3/4
| Shortcut | Application |
|---|---|
| Convert Fractions to Decimals | Divide numerator by denominator (e.g., 3/4 = 0.75) |
| Convert Decimals to Fractions | Move the decimal and place over a power of 10 (e.g., 0.5 = 5/10 = 1/2) |
These GMAT arithmetic tricks will help you quickly solve fraction and decimal problems on the exam.
Efficient Use of Estimation to Save Time
Using estimation can save time on the GMAT. These GMAT arithmetic tricks help you solve complex problems faster:
1. Rounding Numbers
Round numbers to simplify calculations:
Example: 498 / 12 ≈ 500 / 10 = 50
2. Using Benchmarks
Use common values for quick estimates:
Example: 1/3 ≈ 0.33, 7/8 ≈ 0.875
3. Eliminating Outliers
In multiple-choice questions, eliminate extreme values that are too high or too low.
| Estimation Technique | Application |
|---|---|
| Rounding | Simplify by rounding numbers (e.g., 498 / 12 ≈ 50) |
| Benchmarks | Use common values (e.g., 1/3 ≈ 0.33) for quick estimates. |
| Eliminate Extreme Values | Remove answers that are clearly too high or too low. |
These GMAT arithmetic tricks will help you save time and manage your calculations efficiently.
Important Concepts in GMAT Arithmetic
To excel in the quantitative section of the GMAT, mastering key arithmetic concepts is crucial. These concepts form the backbone of many questions, and understanding them deeply can significantly improve your performance. GMAT arithmetic focuses on fundamental topics like fractions, ratios, percentages, and number properties, all of which test not just your knowledge but your speed and accuracy in problem-solving. Applying GMAT arithmetic tricks can make a substantial difference in how quickly and accurately you solve these problems.
For example, percentage calculations are commonly tested, and knowing quick tricks like finding 10% of a number by shifting the decimal point can save valuable time. Similarly, mastering the manipulation of ratios and proportions helps in solving questions that require comparisons or scale adjustments.
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Fractions | Simplifying or converting to decimals for easier calculations. |
| Percentages | Quick rules like 10% or 1% calculations for faster problem-solving. |
| Ratios and Proportions | Cross-multiplication techniques to handle proportion-based questions. |
| Number Properties | Understanding primes, evens, odds, and multiples to narrow down answer choices. |
To know more tricks for faster computations, click here: Maths Tricks | Manhattan Prep
Simplifying Ratios and Proportions for Faster Solutions
Understanding how to simplify ratios and proportions quickly is crucial for solving GMAT problems efficiently. These concepts are often used in the quantitative section, and mastering them will save you valuable time. Here are some useful GMAT arithmetic tricks to help you simplify these problems:
1. Cross Multiplication
Use cross multiplication to simplify proportions:
Example: 3/4 = x/8 Cross multiply: 3 × 8 = 4 × x Result: 24 = 4x → x = 6
2. Reducing Ratios to Simple Terms
Simplify ratios by dividing both terms by their greatest common divisor (GCD):
Example: 12:16 Divide by GCD (4): 12/4 : 16/4 = 3:4
| Method | Application |
|---|---|
| Cross Multiplication | Multiply across the equal sign to simplify (e.g., 3/4 = x/8 → 24 = 4x) |
| Reducing Ratios | Divide both terms by their GCD (e.g., 12:16 → 3:4) |
Understanding Prime Numbers and Factorization Tricks
Prime numbers play a significant role in the GMAT, especially when it comes to factorization and solving number property problems. A prime number is any number greater than 1 that has only two factors: 1 and itself. Some key GMAT arithmetic tricks involving prime numbers include:
1. Prime Factorization
Break down numbers into their prime factors:
Example: 36 = 2^2 × 3^2 Example: 60 = 2^2 × 3 × 5
2. Divisibility Rule for Primes
Check divisibility with prime numbers:
Example: A number is divisible by 3 if the sum of its digits is divisible by 3.
| Concept | Example |
|---|---|
| Prime Factorization | 36 = 2^2 × 3^2, 60 = 2^2 × 3 × 5 |
| Divisibility Rule for 3 | Sum of digits divisible by 3 (e.g., 123 → 1+2+3=6, divisible by 3) |
Percentage Calculations Without a Calculator
Handling percentage problems without a calculator is crucial for the GMAT. Use these GMAT arithmetic tricks to simplify your calculations:
1. Finding 10% and 1%
Start by finding 10% or 1% of the number:
Example: 10% of 300 = 300 / 10 = 30 Example: 1% of 300 = 300 / 100 = 3
2. Breaking Down Percentages
To calculate percentages like 15%, find 10%, then 5%, and add them together:
Example: 10% of 200 = 20 5% of 200 = 10 15% of 200 = 20 + 10 = 30
| Method | Example |
|---|---|
| Find 10% of a number | 10% of 300 = 300 / 10 = 30 |
| Find 1% of a number | 1% of 300 = 300 / 100 = 3 |
| Calculate 15% of a number | 15% of 200 = 20 + 10 = 30 |
Must-Know Arithmetic Shortcuts for the GMAT
For students aiming to excel in the GMAT quantitative section, mastering essential arithmetic shortcuts for GMAT test day checklist can make a huge difference. These shortcuts are designed to help you quickly solve arithmetic problems without relying on long, manual calculations, ultimately saving you precious time during the test. Understanding GMAT arithmetic tricks like estimation, fraction simplifications, and number property manipulations is vital for efficient problem-solving.
- Rounding and Estimation: Rounding numbers to the nearest whole number or multiple of 10 can significantly reduce calculation time, especially in complex multiplication or division problems.
- Fraction to Decimal Conversion: Simplifying fractions by knowing common conversions (e.g., 1/4 = 0.25 or 1/3 ≈ 0.33) helps tackle fraction-based questions more efficiently.
- Cross-Multiplication for Ratios: Use cross-multiplication for quick comparisons and solving proportion or ratio-related problems, which are frequently tested on the GMAT.
- Prime Factorization: Prime factorization is helpful in simplifying factor-based problems and determining the greatest common divisors, enabling faster problem-solving.
These GMAT arithmetic tricks are essential for improving both speed and accuracy in the exam, allowing you to save valuable time on the quantitative section.
To get more in detailed shortcuts, visit here: Maths shortcuts | GMAT Club
Tricks to Solve Powers and Roots Quickly
Mastering powers and roots is crucial for GMAT success. Use these GMAT arithmetic tricks to solve powers and roots quickly:
1. Multiplying and Dividing Exponents with the Same Base
When multiplying or dividing numbers with the same base, add or subtract the exponents:
Example: 3^2 × 3^3 = 3^{2+3} = 3^5 = 243
Example: 4^5 ÷ 4^2 = 4^{5-2} = 4^3 = 64
2. Simplifying Square Roots
Factor numbers into perfect squares to simplify roots:
Example: √72 = √(36 × 2) = 6√2
| Method | Example |
|---|---|
| Multiplying Exponents with Same Base | 3^2 × 3^3 = 3^5 = 243 |
| Dividing Exponents with Same Base | 4^5 ÷ 4^2 = 4^3 = 64 |
| Simplifying Roots | √72 = √(36 × 2) = 6√2 |
Mastering Arithmetic Sequences for Problem Solving
An arithmetic sequence is a series of numbers where the difference between consecutive terms is constant. This common difference allows you to find any term in the sequence using a formula. The general formula for the nth term of an arithmetic sequence is:
a_n = a_1 + (n-1) × d
Where:
- a_1 is the first term
- d is the common difference
- n is the term number
For example, in the sequence 2, 5, 8, 11, ..., the common difference is 3. To find the 100th term:
a_{100} = 2 + (100 - 1) × 3 = 2 + 297 = 299
This formula is an essential tool for solving many GMAT arithmetic sequence problems efficiently. Using these GMAT arithmetic tricks, you can quickly determine any term in the sequence without calculating each term manually.
| Concept | Example |
|---|---|
| Formula for nth term | a_n = a_1 + (n-1) × d |
| Finding the 100th term | a_{100} = 2 + (99 × 3) = 299 |
Understanding these GMAT arithmetic tricks will help you solve sequence-based questions confidently and efficiently. Practice regularly to improve your speed and accuracy.
Using Number Properties to Eliminate Wrong Answers
By applying basic number properties, you can easily eliminate wrong answers on the GMAT. This technique helps you save time and focus on correct options. Here are some quick GMAT arithmetic tricks:
1. Even and Odd Numbers
When multiplying two odd numbers, the result will always be odd. If any answer choice is even, you can instantly discard it. Similarly, adding an even and odd number gives an odd result, which helps rule out wrong answers.
2. Divisibility Rules
Use divisibility rules to eliminate incorrect answers. For example, a number divisible by 3 must have digits that sum to a multiple of 3. If the digits don’t satisfy this, the answer is wrong.
| Number Property | Example |
|---|---|
| Even × Odd = Even | Eliminate even answers when multiplying two odd numbers. |
| Divisibility by 3 | If digits don't sum to a multiple of 3, eliminate the answer. |
Related Blogs:
- GMAT Order Selection
- Important formulas for GMAT
- GMAT Focus Edition
- GMAT Quantitative Reasoning Sample Questions
Conclusion
Mastering GMAT arithmetic requires not just understanding concepts but also applying practical strategies to solve problems efficiently. By learning key shortcuts—like leveraging number properties, using estimation, and simplifying arithmetic sequences—you can significantly improve your speed and accuracy on the GMAT. These GMAT arithmetic tricks help eliminate wrong answers and solve questions faster, giving you an edge on test day. Practice these methods consistently, and you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the GMAT’s quantitative challenges with confidence.
