11 Best Math Tricks to Learn [2024 update]

Are you struggling with complex math problems or simply want to impress your peers with some clever number skills? Learning how to learn maths tricks can be your game-changer. 

In our article, we delve into easy yet impressive strategies to simplify and solve mathematical puzzles. Whether it’s quick multiplication or rapid mental calculations, these tricks will not only boost your confidence in math but also make it a more enjoyable experience. 

So, let’s dive into these fascinating math tricks and transform the way you view math forever!

1. Mental Addition and Subtraction Techniques

Quick mental calculation is a vital skill that can simplify daily math problems significantly. It revolves around the concepts of rounding and estimation to make calculations faster and more manageable. Here’s how you can use these techniques:

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Identify the Numbers: Look at the numbers you need to add or subtract.
• Round Off: Round these numbers to the nearest ten, hundred, or thousand, whichever makes the calculation easiest.
• Perform Mental Calculation: Add or subtract the rounded numbers.
• Adjust for Rounding: If you’ve rounded up, subtract the difference, and if you’ve rounded down, add the difference.

Example:

Imagine you’re shopping and need to add prices: $14.99 and $9.75.

• Round $14.99 to $15 and $9.75 to $10.
• Add the rounded numbers: $15 + $10 = $25.
• Adjust for rounding: The actual total is a bit less, as both were rounded up.

2. Multiplication Shortcuts

Rapid multiplication strategies are handy, especially when dealing with patterns in numbers. Multiplying by numbers like 9s or 11s follows specific patterns that can be memorized and applied quickly.

Patterns in Multiplication:

• Multiplying by 9s: To multiply a number by 9, multiply it by 10 and then subtract the original number.
• Multiplying by 11s: For single-digit numbers, replicate the number (e.g., 3 becomes 33).

Interactive Example:

• Let’s multiply 7 by 9.
• Multiply 7 by 10 = 70.
• Subtract 7 from 70 = 63.
• So, 7 x 9 = 63.

3. Division Made Easy

Simplifying division involves visual and mental strategies, making it less daunting to divide large numbers. Here’s a quick trick:

Effective Trick:

For dividing large numbers, break down the divisor into smaller, more manageable numbers and then add the results of these smaller divisions.

Example:

• Dividing 1000 by 25.
• Break down 25 into 5 x 5.
• Divide 1000 by 5 = 200.
• Divide 200 by 5 = 40.
• So, 1000 ÷ 25 = 40.

4. Mastering Fractions and Decimals

Converting between fractions and decimals doesn’t have to be a headache. The key is to remember that fractions are another way of expressing division. So, to convert a fraction to a decimal, simply divide the top number (numerator) by the bottom number (denominator).

Example:

• Convert 3/4 to a decimal.
• Divide 3 by 4, which equals 0.75.
• So, 3/4 as a decimal is 0.75.

5. Understanding Percentages in a Snap

Figuring out percentages can be made easy with a simple mental calculation trick. To find a percentage of a number, just convert the percentage to a decimal and multiply it by the number.

Example:

• Find 20% of 50.
• Convert 20% to a decimal: 20% = 0.20.
• Multiply 0.20 by 50 = 10.
• So, 20% of 50 is 10.

6. Solving Algebraic Equations Effortlessly

Factoring and simplifying algebraic expressions can be simplified with a straightforward approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Identify the GCF (Greatest Common Factor): Find the largest number that divides all the coefficients in the expression.
2. Divide Each Term: Divide every term in the expression by the GCF.
3. Rewrite the Expression: Express the original expression as the product of the GCF and the simplified expression.

Example:

• Simplify 12x + 8.
• GCF of 12 and 8 is 4.
• Divide each term by 4: 12x/4 = 3x, 8/4 = 2.
• Rewrite: 12x + 8 = 4(3x + 2).

7. Geometry Hacks for Angles and Shapes

Remembering and calculating angles in geometry can be easier with some basic tips. An easy way to deal with angles is to remember that in a circle, there are 360 degrees, and in a triangle, the angles always add up to 180 degrees.

Example:

Find the third angle in a triangle where two angles are 50 degrees and 60 degrees.

• Add the two known angles: 50 + 60 = 110.
• Subtract this sum from 180: 180 – 110 = 70.
• So, the third angle is 70 degrees.

8. Tricks for Handling Large Numbers

When it comes to large numbers, the key is simplification. Break them down into smaller, more manageable parts or round them off to make calculations easier. 

This technique is especially useful in data analysis and large-scale calculations, where working with exact numbers can be overwhelming.

Applications:

• In data analysis, approximate large values to make initial estimates.
• In budgeting or financial planning, round off to nearest thousands or millions for a quicker overview.

9. Speedy Methods for Calculating Time and Distance

Calculating time and distance quickly can be crucial in travel and scheduling. A handy trick is to use the basic formula: Distance = Speed x Time. By rearranging this formula, you can quickly find any of the three values if you know the other two.

Practical Example:

If a car travels at 60 mph and you need to cover 120 miles, how long will it take?

• Time = Distance / Speed
• Time = 120 miles / 60 mph = 2 hours.
• So, it will take 2 hours to travel 120 miles at 60 mph.

10. Probability and Statistics Simplified

Probability can be intimidating, but a basic trick is to consider the number of favorable outcomes over the total number of outcomes. This is particularly useful in everyday decision-making and risk assessment.

Real-world Example:

If you have a deck of 52 cards and want to know the probability of drawing an Ace, remember there are 4 Aces in the deck.

• Probability = Favorable Outcomes / Total Outcomes
• Probability = 4 (Aces) / 52 (Total Cards) = 1/13.

11. Advanced Tricks: Calculus Shortcuts

In calculus, a fundamental technique is to understand and apply derivatives and integrals in a simplified manner. For example, using the power rule for derivatives (d/dx of x^n = nx^(n-1)) can make finding the rate of change or slope of a function much simpler.

Application:

In real-life problems like calculating the rate of growth or decay in populations or substances.

In academic studies, for understanding changes in physical quantities like velocity and acceleration.

By mastering these methods, you can handle large numbers, time and distance calculations, probability, and even calculus with more confidence and efficiency.

What is the Best Online Platform to Learn Math Tricks?

WuKong Math is an online platform offering comprehensive mathematics education for students in grades 1-12. The platform stands out due to its integration of the Singapore CPA Teaching Approach, which emphasizes concrete and abstract thinking skills development through graphical aids. 

This approach is instrumental in improving various skills such as computation, logical reasoning, spatial imagination, induction, categorization, and statistics.

Key features of WuKong Math include:

• Dual-Teacher Learning System: This innovative approach, involving two teachers per class, significantly enhances the learning experience by ensuring more personalized attention and varied teaching styles.
• Singapore CPA Teaching Approach: Utilizing this reputable approach, WuKong Math emphasizes concrete and abstract thinking skills development, making math learning more comprehensive and effective.
• Professional Teaching Team: The platform’s courses are developed and taught by professionals from leading educational organizations, ensuring high-quality education and credibility.
• Interesting Scenario-based Teaching: The use of storytelling and immersive techniques in teaching math not only makes learning more engaging but also helps students understand and retain concepts better.
• Comprehensive Math Skill Development: The platform’s focus on improving abstract thinking, computation, and logical reasoning skills equips students with a well-rounded mathematical foundation, which is crucial for academic and real-world problem-solving.

WuKong Math’s approach to teaching math is designed to create an immersive, efficient, professional, and transparent learning environment, catering to the diverse needs of learners and equipping them with the skills needed for advanced studies and math competitions​​​​​​​​​​.

Summary

In summary, ’11 The Best Math Tricks to Learn This Year’ provides essential guidance on how to learn maths tricks, simplifying complex concepts into manageable, practical techniques. From mental calculations to algebra and geometry, this article serves as a valuable resource for enhancing math skills. 

Additionally, platforms like WuKong Math, with their innovative teaching methods, further aid in making math learning more accessible and enjoyable. This comprehensive guide is an indispensable tool for anyone aiming to improve their mathematical prowess and confidence.