How to Multiply Bigger Numbers Quickly: Best Tricks for Students
The concept of Multiplication Tricks plays a key role in mathematics and is widely applicable to both real-life situations and exam scenarios. Mastering multiplication tricks helps students solve math problems faster, avoid calculation errors, and save time during competitive exams. These tricks are especially useful in mental maths, daily arithmetic, and sharpening your calculation skills.
What Is Multiplication Tricks?
A multiplication trick is a quick shortcut or method that helps multiply numbers easily and accurately. You’ll find this concept applied in areas such as mental maths, Vedic math techniques, and competitive exam preparation. Multiplication tricks can range from finger tricks for small numbers to special formulas for multiplying numbers near 10, 100, or 1000.
Key Formulas for Multiplication Tricks
Here are some standard formulas and methods used as multiplication tricks:
| Trick Name | Formula/Method | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Multiplying by 9 | \( 9 \times n = (10 \times n) - n \) | \( 9 \times 6 = 60 - 6 = 54 \) |
| Multiplying by 11 (2-digits) | If \( ab \), then \( a \) + \( b \) in between | \( 23 \times 11 = 2 \, (2+3=5) \, 3 = 253 \) |
| Base 100 Shortcut | For numbers near 100: First part: \( n_1 + (n_2-100) \) or vice versa Second part: \( (100-n_1)\times(100-n_2) \) |
\( 98 \times 97 = 95 \) | \( 02 \times 03 = 06 \) ⇒ 9506 |
Cross-Disciplinary Usage
Multiplication tricks are not only useful in Maths but also play an important role in Physics, Computer Science, and daily logical reasoning. Students preparing for JEE, NTSE, or Olympiads will see their relevance in calculation-heavy questions and problem-solving scenarios.
Step-by-Step Illustration
- Multiply 27 × 11 using the two-digit multiplication trick:
1. Separate the digits: 2 _ 7
2. Add the digits: 2 + 7 = 9
3. Place sum in the middle: 2 9 7 ⇒ 297
Speed Trick or Vedic Shortcut
Here’s a quick shortcut that helps solve problems faster when working with Multiplication Tricks. Many students use this trick during timed exams to save crucial seconds.
Example Trick: To quickly multiply two numbers close to 100 (like 96 × 98), use this:
- Subtract each number from 100:
100 − 96 = 4, and 100 − 98 = 2
- Add cross-wise: 96 − 2 or 98 − 4 = 94
This becomes the first part of the answer: 94
- Multiply the two differences: 4 × 2 = 8
This becomes the second part: 08 (two digits)
- Final Answer: 9408
Tricks like this aren’t just cool — they’re practical in competitive exams like NTSE, Olympiads, and even JEE.
Try These Yourself
- Multiply 8 × 9 using a shortcut instead of regular multiplication.
- Quickly find 45 × 11 using the digit sum trick.
- Use the base-100 method for 97 × 96.
- Multiply 5 × 86 using the halving and tens trick.
Frequent Errors and Misunderstandings
- Forgetting to add carried numbers in two-digit-by-11 multiplication.
- Not padding zeros in tricks where the second part must be two digits (e.g., 1009, not 109).
- Mixing up order in cross-multiplication methods.
- Relying solely on tricks and neglecting multiplication fundamentals.
Relation to Other Concepts
The idea of Multiplication Tricks connects closely with topics such as Multiplication Tables and 3-digit and multi-step arithmetic. Mastering this helps with understanding more advanced concepts in algebra and number theory. Fast multiplication enhances your ability to solve word problems, algebraic simplifications, and even helps in mental estimation.
Classroom Tip
A quick way to remember the "multiply by 9" trick: For any number 1–10, the product’s digits add up to 9 (9×3=27, 2+7=9). Vedantu’s teachers often use finger methods and number patterns in live classes to make multiplication tricks memorable and fun.
We explored Multiplication Tricks—from definition, formula, examples, mistakes, and connections to other subjects. Continue practicing with Vedantu to become confident in solving problems using this concept. For more practice, you can also visit Multiplying Fractions and BODMAS Rule for related arithmetic skills.
FAQs on Multiplication Tricks: Quick Methods for Fast Maths Calculations
1. What are multiplication tricks in Maths?
Multiplication tricks are shortcut methods to solve multiplication problems quickly and accurately. They are helpful for improving calculation speed and reducing errors, especially during exams or mental calculations. These tricks often involve using patterns, properties of numbers, or visual aids to simplify the multiplication process.
2. How can I multiply numbers faster in exams?
To multiply numbers faster during exams, learn and practice various multiplication tricks. Focus on techniques like:
- Finger tricks for multiplying by 9
- Base methods for numbers near powers of 10
- Vedic Maths techniques like cross-multiplication
- Distributive property for breaking down complex multiplications
Regular practice will build your speed and accuracy.
3. What are some easy multiplication tricks for kids?
Easy multiplication tricks for kids include:
- Using fingers to multiply by 9 (count down from 10 on fingers)
- Doubling for multiplying by 2 and 4
- Multiplying by 5 by halving and multiplying by 10
- Patterns for multiplying by 10 (add a zero)
- Visual aids like multiplication charts or games
Start with simple tricks and gradually introduce more complex ones.
4. How do I quickly multiply two-digit numbers?
Quick methods for two-digit multiplication include:
- Distributive property: Break down the numbers (e.g., 23 x 12 = (23 x 10) + (23 x 2))
- Base method: Using nearby powers of 10 (e.g., for 98 x 97, use 100 as a base)
- Vertical/Cross multiplication techniques for efficient calculation.
Practice will help you choose the most efficient method for each problem.
5. What is the fastest way to multiply 7, 8, or 9?
The fastest way varies depending on the numbers and your strengths. Consider:
- Finger tricks for multiplying by 9
- Doubling repeatedly for multiplying by 8
- Multiplying by 10 and subtracting for multiplying by 9
- Memorizing multiplication tables up to 10
Practice will help you determine which method works best for you.
6. What are some Vedic Maths multiplication techniques?
Vedic Maths offers several fast multiplication techniques such as:
- Nikhilam Sutra (for multiplying numbers near powers of 10)
- Urdhva-Tiryagbhyam Sutra (for cross-multiplication)
- Vertical and Crosswise method (for multiplying numbers of any size)
These methods use unique patterns and algorithms for quicker calculations.
7. How do multiplication tricks relate to Vedic mathematics?
Many multiplication tricks are rooted in Vedic mathematics principles. Vedic Maths provides systematic methods for performing calculations efficiently, often using patterns and relationships between numbers to simplify complex problems. Several popular multiplication shortcuts are based on Vedic sutras (formulae).
8. Can learning multiplication tricks improve mental agility?
Yes, learning and practicing multiplication tricks significantly improves mental agility and calculation skills. The techniques encourage you to recognize patterns and relationships between numbers, boosting your overall mathematical thinking abilities. This improved mental flexibility often extends to other areas of mathematics as well.
9. What errors should I avoid when using multiplication tricks?
Common errors when using multiplication tricks include:
- Incorrect application of the trick
- Miscalculations in intermediate steps
- Ignoring carrying over digits
- Not understanding the underlying mathematical principle
Careful attention to detail and practice are crucial to avoid errors.
10. Are multiplication tricks useful beyond school exams?
Yes, multiplication tricks are extremely valuable even beyond school. They are useful for:
- Everyday calculations (shopping, budgeting, etc.)
- Competitive exams (requiring quick calculations)
- Mental maths (improving your overall calculation speed)
- Further studies (building a strong foundation in mathematics)
Mastering these tricks improves mathematical efficiency in various life aspects.
11. How to multiply three-digit numbers quickly?
For quick three-digit multiplication, consider:
- Breaking down the numbers and using the distributive property
- Base methods using 100 or 1000 as a base
- Cross-multiplication techniques
- Vedic Maths methods like Urdhva-Tiryagbhyam
The best approach depends on the specific numbers involved and your familiarity with the various methods.
12. How can I use multiplication tricks to solve word problems?
Multiplication tricks can significantly help solve word problems. First, identify the multiplication aspect within the problem. Then, apply the appropriate trick to find the solution. For example, you can use distributive property or base methods to simplify the calculation based on the context of the word problem. Remember to check your answer against the word problem's requirements.
