Simplification and Approximation: Learn Tips and Tricks

Simplification and Approximation: One of the simpler topics in the numerical ability area is simplification and approximation, and the only way to complete questions from this section quickly is by efficient calculation. The major goal of the questions on the approximation and simplification topic is to assess a candidate’s aptitude for working with numbers and doing simple computations.

Long decimal numbers and calculations are used in the questions to confound the applicants, however this is one of the areas where a candidate can perform best without making mistakes and yet receive a high score. Continue reading to learn the tips and tricks to solve simplification and approximation problems.

Important Tips and Tricks to Solve Simplification and Approximation Questions

There are several fundamental strategies and techniques that can be used to answer the approximation and simplification questions in order to ensure that the candidate does not lose marks in this topic. Refer to the following tips:

Always use the BODMAS rule to solve situations involving approximation or simplification.
Use a rounded-off value for numbers that are presented in decimal format. For instance, 35.72 can be read as 66, 16.10 as 15, etc.
For applicants, learning the tables up to at least 20 can be very beneficial and time-saving.
Keep in mind the fundamentally crucial formulas that might be used to this situation:
- (a+b)² = a² + b² + 2ab
- (a-b)² = a² + b² – 2ab
- a² – b² = (a+b) (a-b)
- a³ + b³ = (a+b) (a² – ab + b²)
- (a+b)³ = a³ + b³ + 3ab (a+b)
- (a-b)³ = a³ – b³ – 3ab (a-b)

What Is BODMAS?

BODMAS is an acronym for a math rule that represents the order of operations. Any simplification or approximation questions need to be solved in the following order:

B – Brackets
O – Of
D – Division
M – Multiplication
A – Addition
S – Subtraction

Different Ways of Asking Simplification Questions

There are two ways to phrase the questions about simplification:

Missing numbers: Candidates must complete an equation that is either on the left-hand side (LHS) or the right-hand side (RHS) of the paper (Right-hand side). For instance, 18% of 125 x 9 % of 25 = _____ + 100. Candidates must complete the blanks.

Making the equation simpler: The direct method of providing an equation and solving it to obtain the solution is the second way that the issues about simplification may be posed. As an example, 500 + 2000 ÷ 40 x 50 = ? Candidates must respond to these questions by choosing what appears in the place of the question mark (?).