4 Mind-Blowing Calculator Tricks You Didn't Know Existed

Calculators are often seen merely as tools for performing basic arithmetic, but they can do so much more! In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore four mind-blowing calculator tricks that can enhance your calculation skills and impress your peers. Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone who simply loves math, these tricks will change the way you view calculators.

Quick Links:
• Trick 1: The Power of Multiplication by 9
• Trick 2: Quick Percentage Calculations
• Trick 3: The Squaring Shortcut
• Trick 4: Square Roots Made Easy
• FAQs

Trick 1: The Power of Multiplication by 9

Multiplying by 9 can be made fun and easy with a simple trick. Instead of doing the multiplication directly, you can use your fingers to get the answer quickly!

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Hold out both hands with fingers extended.
2. To multiply a number by 9, fold down the finger that represents that number. For example, if you want to calculate 9 x 3, fold down the third finger.
3. The number of fingers to the left of the folded finger represents tens (2 fingers), and the number of fingers to the right represents units (7 fingers). So, 9 x 3 = 27!

Example:

Let's calculate 9 x 5. Fold down your fifth finger:

• Fingers left of the folded finger: 4
• Fingers right of the folded finger: 5

So, 9 x 5 = 45!

Trick 2: Quick Percentage Calculations

Calculating percentages can often be daunting, but with this trick, you'll be a pro in no time.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. To find 10% of any number, simply move the decimal point one place to the left. For example, 10% of 250 is 25.
2. Once you have 10%, you can easily find any other percentage. For example, to find 20%, just double the 10% value.

Example:

To find 15% of 200:

• 10% = 20 (move decimal left)
• 5% = 10 (half of 10%)
• Add them together: 20 + 10 = 30

So, 15% of 200 = 30!

Trick 3: The Squaring Shortcut

Squaring numbers can be tricky, but with this shortcut, you'll be able to do it easily!

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. To square numbers ending in 5, multiply the first digit by itself plus one, and append 25. For example, to calculate 25²:
2. 2 x (2 + 1) = 6, so 25² = 625!

Example:

Calculating 35²:

• 3 x (3 + 1) = 12

Thus, 35² = 1225!

Trick 4: Square Roots Made Easy

Finding square roots can be simplified with a calculator trick that provides an approximation.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Estimate the nearest perfect squares. For example, to find √50, we know 7² = 49 and 8² = 64.
2. Since 50 is closer to 49, we can estimate √50 to be slightly over 7.

Example:

To refine our estimate, you can use the formula:

√N ≈ A + (N - A²) / (2A), where A is the nearest perfect square.

For √50, A = 7:

• 50 - 49 = 1
• 2 * 7 = 14

So, √50 ≈ 7 + 1/14 ≈ 7.07!

FAQs

• What are calculator tricks? Calculator tricks are shortcuts or techniques that simplify calculations, making them faster and easier.
• How can I improve my math skills using a calculator? Learning tricks and shortcuts can enhance your efficiency and understanding of mathematical concepts.
• Are these tricks applicable to all types of calculators? Yes, most tricks can be applied to basic and scientific calculators.
• Can I use these tricks in everyday life? Absolutely! These tricks can be useful in shopping, budgeting, and various everyday calculations.
• Do I need a special calculator for these tricks? No, a basic calculator is sufficient for most of these tricks.
• Can these tricks help in exams? Yes, they can save time and help you solve problems more efficiently during exams.
• Are these tricks suitable for all age groups? Yes, they can be used by anyone who wants to enhance their math skills, from children to adults.
• Is there a way to practice these tricks? Yes, you can practice with different numbers and scenarios to become proficient.
• Where can I learn more calculator tricks? There are many online resources, tutorials, and math courses that focus on calculator tricks and shortcuts.
• What if I forget a trick? Don’t worry! With practice, these tricks will become second nature, and you can always refer back to guides like this one.