Bank Probationary Officer (PO) exams are renowned for their rigorous mathematical sections, demanding candidates to understand various mathematical concepts. One of the key skills necessary to excel in these exams is the art of simplification. Simplification questions assess your ability to quickly and accurately simplify complex mathematical expressions, making them an integral component of your exam preparation.
So, delve into advanced techniques and strategies that transcend the fundamental principles, equipping you with the tools you need to conquer these questions while maintaining precision and saving time effortlessly.
The Power of Approximation
In simplification, approximating values is a technique that can prove invaluable. Often, you encounter unwieldy numbers or decimals that can make calculations cumbersome. To overcome this hurdle, consider rounding numbers to the nearest whole number. For instance, when faced with calculating 23.87% of 1376, you can round it to 24% of 1400, simplifying the mental calculation significantly. This technique not only expedites the process but also mitigates the risk of errors in your final answer.
Utilising Prime Factorisation
Prime factorisation is a potent tool for simplification. You can deconstruct complex expressions into more manageable components by breaking down large numbers into prime factors. For instance, when you encounter questions involving numbers like 1260 and 945, breaking them down into their prime factors unveils their inherent simplicity. Moreover, this method facilitates the identification of common factors that can be cancelled out, further streamlining the expression and reducing the workload.
Memorising Common Fractions and Percentages
In simplification, mastering fractions and percentages is crucial for efficiency. Common fractions like 1/7, 1/9, 1/11, and 1/13, and key percentages such as 25%, 50%, and 75%, are essential. Memorising these can be a strategic advantage during exams. These values allow for rapid application in simplifying expressions, negating the need for prolonged calculations. This skill significantly boosts both speed and accuracy in problem-solving.
It’s a useful technique for quickly converting fractions to decimals and vice versa, which is particularly helpful in time-constrained situations like standardised tests or competitive exams. This approach also aids in better understanding mathematical concepts and developing a more intuitive grasp of numerical relationships.
Cross Multiplication for Fraction Simplification
Cross-multiplication is a valuable technique, especially when dealing with fractions. When you need to add, subtract, or compare fractions, this method comes to the rescue. For instance, when comparing 3/5 and 4/7, cross multiplication reveals that 3/5 is the greater fraction. This technique becomes particularly advantageous when you find common denominators or compare fractions with different denominators, eliminating the need for convoluted calculations.
Rule of Divisibility
The rules of divisibility can be a lifesaver when simplifying calculations. These rules empower you to swiftly ascertain whether one number is divisible by another without resorting to lengthy division. For instance, recognising that a number is divisible by three if the sum of its digits is also divisible by three can save precious time when simplifying expressions. Similarly, understanding the rules governing divisibility by 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9 can prove to be invaluable in various simplification scenarios.
Conclusion
Mastery of simplification questions is quite pivotal for success in Bank PO exams, as it not only enhances your problem-solving skills but also ensures efficient time management. By incorporating these advanced techniques and strategies into your preparation, you will be better equipped to navigate intricate mathematical expressions with confidence and precision.
The power of approximation, prime factorisation, memorising common fractions and percentages, cross multiplication for fraction simplification, and divisibility rules constitute a formidable arsenal that will enable you to streamline your approach to these questions.
