Quick Division Tricks: Speed Up Your Aptitude Test Calculations

Struggling with Division in Aptitude Tests?

How many times have you flipped through aptitude books searching for an easy way to divide numbers? When you finally find a simple method, you stick with it. This article introduces a smart trick that makes division quick and calculator-free!

Quick Approximation for Division

Consider this fraction: 482/855
Would you reach for a calculator? Let’s explore a simple method that eliminates the need for one.

Step 1: Approximate the Numbers

Instead of working with complex numbers, round them to the nearest easy-to-handle values:

855 rounds to 900
482 rounds to 500

Now, the fraction simplifies to 500/900, which reduces to 5/9.

The Key Concept: Ratio Scaling

Did you know? If a fraction x/y is given, and both the numerator and denominator are increased or decreased in the same ratio, the value remains unchanged.

Example:

Given ratio: 5/9

If we increase the numerator by 5 × 1 = 5 and the denominator by 9 × 1 = 9, the new fraction remains 10/18 = 5/9.
If we increase by 5 × 2 = 10 and 9 × 2 = 18, it becomes 15/27 = 5/9.
If we decrease by 5 × 3 = 15 and 9 × 3 = 27, it simplifies to -10/-18 = 5/9.

This principle helps us adjust fractions quickly and accurately.

Applying This Trick to 482/855

We already estimated 482/855 ≈ 5/9. Now, let’s refine the calculation.

Step 2: Adjust to a Friendly Denominator

Make the denominator 900 (since it’s easier to divide by).

Increase in denominator: 900 – 855 = 45
To maintain the fraction’s value, increase the numerator by: 25 (since 25/45 = 5/9)

Now, 482/855=(482+25)/(855+45)482/855 = (482 + 25) / (855 + 45)
=507/900= 507/900
≈0.5633≈ 0.5633

Using a calculator, the exact value of 482/855 is 0.5637—very close to our approximation!

Conclusion

Mastering quick division techniques can significantly improve your problem-solving speed in aptitude tests and real-life scenarios. By approximating fractions and using proportional adjustments, you can simplify complex calculations without relying on a calculator. Regular practice of these methods will help you solve Data Interpretation and wage division problems efficiently.