Math Exam Tips: How to Solve Problems Faster and More Accurately

Math exams can be stressful, especially when you have limited time to solve complex problems. But with the proper techniques and strategies, you can improve speed and accuracy. This guide will teach you essential math tricks and shortcuts to help you prepare better and perform well in your exams.

How to Prepare for a Math Exam?

• Understand Concepts, Not Just Formulas

Memorizing formulas can help, but understanding the logic behind them is even more important. This way, you can apply the concepts to any type of problem.

• Practice with Past Papers and Mock Tests

Solve previous years' question papers to familiarize yourself with the questions that appear in exams. Time yourself to build speed.

• Create a Study Schedule

Dedicate specific time slots for different math topics. Focus more on difficult areas while also revising easy topics regularly.
 

• Use Active Recall and Spaced Repetition

Write down problems and solve them without looking at solutions. This helps reinforce memory and improves retention.

• Solve a Variety of Problems

Practicing different types of questions helps you develop problem-solving flexibility, essential for tackling unexpected questions.

• Avoid Last-Minute Cramming

Math is best learned with consistent practice. Instead of last-minute memorization, space out your revision sessions.

• Why Mental Math Matters

Calculators may not always be allowed for exams. Learning mental math tricks can save precious time and improve confidence. To know more about mental math, check the table below.

• Breaking Down Numbers for Quick Calculations

Instead of solving problems traditionally, break them into smaller, easier parts.

Example: Addition 43 + 34 = (43 + 30) + 4 = 73 + 4 = 77

• Addition Trick

Use rounding to make addition easier. 

Example: 

297 + 185 

Round 297 to 300 

185 to 190  

300 + 190 = 490 

Subtract the extra 3 and 5 = 482

• Subtraction Trick

Use the complement method: 

Example: 

1000 - 675 

Instead of borrowing 

subtract 675 from 999 

999 - 675 = 324 

add 1 = 325

Fast Multiplication Tricks

• Multiplication by Breaking Down Numbers

Example: 

24 x 16 

(24 = 4 x 6) 

6 x 16 = 96 

96 x 4 = 384

• Multiplication of Numbers Ending in 5

Example: 75² 

Take 7, multiply by 8 (7×8=56) 

Then add 25 = 5625

Division Shortcuts to Save Time

Divisibility Rules

• A number ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8 is divisible by 2.
• A number is divisible by 3 if the sum of its digits is divisible by 3.
• A number is divisible by 5 if it ends in 0 or 5.

Percentage Calculation Made Easy

Example: 5% of 480 

Shift the decimal one place left (48) 

Divide by 2 = 24

Square and Cube Tricks for Faster Computation

• Squaring Numbers Ending in 5

Example: 

35² 

Take 3, multiply by 4 (3×4=12)

Then add 25 = 1225

• Finding Cube Roots Quickly

Example: 

Cube root of 15625 

Break into parts: last digit 5

Closest cube below 156 (5³ = 125) 

Answer is 25

 

Multiplication Table of 9

09, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81, 90 

Notice that the tens place increases while units decrease.
 
Tips for Word Problems & Logical Thinking

• Break down word problems into smaller steps. 
• Identify key information 
• Ignore unnecessary details.

How to Avoid Common Math Mistakes?

• Double-check calculations – Always review your answers to catch small errors before finalizing them.
• Avoid misreading questions – Read each question carefully to understand exactly what is being asked.
• Use rough work for long calculations – Write down steps clearly to avoid confusion and minimize mistakes.

Click the link below to discover 5 powerful ways to develop your math skills!