When I was at school, Mathematics was not only a tough subject but also remained synonymous with terror for many of us. One slight calculation mistake during the class, especially for high schoolers, would turn the mathematics syllabus into an academic maze. In fact, this is how many students end up presuming they are not cut out for math. Luckily enough, now, unlike us, the next generation has access to learning Vedic mathematics formulae at hand. Before discussing why your child should learn Vedic math, first, let’s discuss the definition of Vedic math.
What is Vedic mathematics? In the 21st century, school curriculums from around the world follow different calculating methods and techniques. Most of these techniques are nothing but traditional methods of calculations, which are rooted in ancient civilizations. For example, present-day (elementary) subtraction, addition, multiplication, and division came from Babylonian civilization, Abacus from Chinese civilization, and Kumon System from ancient Japanese knowledge. Similarly, Vedic mathematics is also believed to be rooted in the ancient Indian texts called Vedas. There are four Vedas—Rigveda, Samaveda, Atharvaveda, and Yajurveda. According to several historians of mathematics, sutras of Vedic math can be traced in a parisista (a supplementary appendix/text) of Atharvaveda. Although Vedic mathematics has a debatable history, presently, the primary source of the sutras is the book Vedic Mathematics, by Bharati Krishna Tirtha, popularly known as Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Bharati Krishna Tirtha. This book is a compilation of 16 formulae/sutras and 13 sub-sutras for solving mathematical problems in faster and easier ways. It’s unbelievable how these 16 formulae are used to solve general arithmetic, algebra, calculus, geometry, and conics as well. Now that we all have a general idea about Vedic math, I am diving straight into the concerned question.
Why should your child learn Vedic math? Dear reader, if you want to know the benefits of learning these formulae as a child, then my first point is: It Helps to Calculate Faster According to Vedic math scholars, a child can calculate 10 to 15 times faster than usual by using Vedic math formulae. Be it CAT, JEE, or regular school exams; your child will definitely come across complicated calculations. Unlike other children, if they learn the sutras, they will calculate huge multiplications, divisions, and root problems without using any calculator or finger counting. It will not only save them ample time but also provide scope to concentrate on important questions. For instance, let’s try to solve: 3674 x 5 =? Tough, huh? Nope, you don’t need a calculator to find the answer. Instead, you just need the right technique. First step: look at the last digit. If it's an even number, divide it with 2 and if it's an odd number, minus 1 and then divide it with 2. 3674 ÷ 2 = 1837 Second step: Now, put a 0 in the number, and you have the answer. The answer will be 3674 x 5 = 18370 Let me give you the basic trick. If it's an even number, put an additional zero after dividing it by 2. However, if it's an odd number, first minus 1 and then divide it by 2. Whatever the number is, just put a 5 with it, and you have the answer. There are several formulas like the above example that can make mathematics easier for any child. Boosts Confidence We will all agree that our school years make up the primary stage of life, which decides our future. I remember when I was in high school, I decided to pursue a career that had nothing to do with mathematics. And, what was the reason? It was just a formative assessment in which I did a few wrong calculations. My point is: if I had the right calculating tricks during high school, I might have been in a different profession. Dear readers, a slight boost in confidence can bring all the positive differences in your child. From confidently appearing in the exams and getting good grades to exploring various career options, Vedic math can change your child's life in uncountable ways. Therefore, let your child get the opportunity that you and I had missed. Let them sit confidently during the mathematics classes, even if it's not their favourite subject. Opportunity to carry on the Ancient Mathematical Knowledge Undoubtedly, India is a land of ancient knowledge and wisdom. From yoga to Vedas, this civilization has provided boundless wisdom to mankind. By teaching Vedic math, you are providing your child a chance of becoming the next Shakuntala Devi. All I am trying to say is that, soon, these age-old sutras will probably be out-of-practice. However, if we all put little effort into passing the generation-old mathematical knowledge to our kids, Vedic math will survive.
How are you teaching Vedic math to your kids? Despite the fact that Vedic math formulae make mathematics easier, it's not included in any school curriculum. Therefore, as a parent/guardian, it's our responsibility to teach them. If you are a mathematics enthusiast, first, you can learn, and then you can teach them. There are also several books available in the market. I am listing a few of them for you:
Vedic Maths Workbook 1 by Om Books International
The Curious Hats Of Magical Maths, Vedic Mathematics for Schools: Book 1 by author James Glover
Vedic Mathematics Sutra by Dr Alok Kumar But if you don’t have the time and energy to teach the little learners, you can always hire a
But if you don’t have the time and energy to teach the little learners, you can always hire a professional Vedic math expert. Dear readers, go ahead, teach your kids the 16 sutras. Trust me, learning mathematical tricks never goes in vain.