Vedic Mathematics: Prof M. Basanna
Vedic Mathematics: Prof M. Basanna
Vedic Mathematics: Prof M. Basanna
By
Prof M. Basanna
*****
Introduction
Vedic Mathematics is a great boon to the modern world from our ancient sages. It is an ancient
technique, revived by His Holiness Jagadguru Bharathi Krishna Tirthaji. Vedic Mathematics is based on
16 Sutras (Formulas) and 16 Upa-Sutras (Sub-Formulas). These are in words and are very much useful in
solving the problems. The Vedic methods are simple, short and speedy. The answers can be worked out in
2 or 3 lines. This saves a lot of time, space and energy. Answers can be computed mentally without using
pen and paper.
Vedic mathematics has many advantages:
• Addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc. can be done from left to right as against traditional right
to left.
• The answers can be verified easily and quickly.
• Multiplication, division, squares and square roots, cubes and cube roots, reciprocals etc. can be
done easily and accurately.
• Accuracy will be far better than calculators. Calculators have their own limitations.
• Alternate methods are possible to solve a problem.
• It works well with arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.
Vedic mathematics is very much useful to the students studying in schools, colleges and every person
in general. It is also helpful for those who are preparing for competitive and entrance examinations. It is
well tested by scientists and engineers at NASA and taught in UK and other European countries.
Basics
Mathematics is a game of numbers. Numbers contain digits 1 – 9 and 0. To learn and understand
mathematics we must know the meaning of the terms used and the rules of various operations.
Complement
If sum of two digits is equal to 10, then each digit is said to be the complement of the other from 10.
e.g., 4 + 6 = 10. Here, 4 is the complement of 6 from 10 and vice versa.
Complements of digits from 10 and 9 are shown below. These must be studied carefully and
remembered. This will help in understanding Vedic Mathematics clearly and properly.
Complements from 10
Digit 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Complement 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Complements from 9
Digit 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Complement 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Sum of two positive digits is equal to the sum of the digits with positive sign.
E.g., 2 + 3 = 5, 6 + 3 = 9, etc.
Sum of two negative digits is equal to the sum of the digits with negative sign.
E.g.,(–2) + (–3) = –5, (–6) + (–3) = –9, etc.
Sum of a positive digit and a negative digit is equal to the difference between the digits with the sign
of larger digit. E.g., 2 + (–3) = –1, (–6) + 3 = –3, etc.
Subtraction is nothing but negative addition. To subtract one digit from another digit, change the sign
of the digit to be subtracted and add the two digits.
E.g., 2 – 3 = 2 + (–3) = –1, 6 – 3 = 6 + (–3) = 3, etc.
Product of two positive digits is equal to the product of the digits with positive sign.
E.g., 2 x 3 = 6, 6 x 3 = 18, etc.
Product of two negative digits is equal to the product of the digits with positive sign.
E.g., (–2) x (–3) = 6, (–6) x (–3) = 18, etc.
Product of a positive digit and a negative digit is equal to the product of the digits with the negative
sign.
E.g., 2 x (–3) = –6, (–6) x 3 = –18, etc.
In Vedic mathematics, powers of 10, viz., 10, 100, 1000, … are used as base. When a number is
subtracted from a base we get the complement of that number from that base.
E.g., 100 – 36 = 64. Here, 64 is the complement of 36 from base 100.
1000 – 36 = 964. Here, 964 is the complement of 36 from 1000.
To find the complement of a number from a base we need not subtract the number from the base
every time. We can use the Vedic Sutra "All from 9 and the last from 10", known as Nikhilam Sutra. It is
also called "All from 9", in short. The following examples explain the use of this Sutra.
1. Consider the number 853 and base 1000.
Applying All from 9, 8 from 9 is 9 – 8 = 1
5 from 9 is 9 – 5 = 4
And Last from 10, 3 from 10 is 10 – 3 =7
Thus, 147 is the complement of 853 from base 1000. Note that 147 + 853 = 1000.
2. Consider the number 52 and base 1000. Here, 1000 has 3 zeros. So, we rewrite 52 as 052 and
apply Nikhilam.
All from 9, 0 from 9 is 9 – 0 = 9
5 from 9 is 9 – 5 = 4
Last from 10, 2 from 10 is 10 – 2 =8
Thus, 948 is the complement of 52 from base 1000. Again, note that 948 + 52 = 1000.
Similarly, the complement of any number can be computed. The calculations shown above are only
guidelines. We need not write all the steps. The calculations can be done mentally after a little practice. Try
some more cases by yourselves.
Addition
In Mathematics addition and subtraction are simple and easy operations. But, addition is easier than
subtraction. These topics are covered here for the reason that Vedic Mathematics allows us to add, subtract
and multiply numbers from left to right or right to left. This is the greatness of Vedic Mathematics.
Left to right
We write the numbers from left to right. Also, we read numbers from left to right. But, in traditional
mathematics addition, subtraction and multiplication are done from right to left. Would it not be fine if we
can do these operations from left to right? In some problems we need to know first 2 or 3 digits. Here we
shall see how this could be done!
Addition
As said earlier addition is the simplest and easiest operation. We shall see here how addition could be
done from left to right. The method is given below.
Method
Subtraction
Subtraction is little harder than addition. But it is made simpler using Vedic Mathematics techniques.
Instead of subtracting numbers directly we convert the number to be subtracted into Vinculum and then
subtract. The method adopted is explained below.
Method:
• Write numbers one below the other.
• Check the lower digit from left to right. If it is larger than the upper digit, put a star on the its
previous digit to increase its value by 1.e.g., 1–>1+1=2,2–> 2+1=3, etc.
• If the lower digit is smaller than the upper digit write the difference between digits.
• If the lower digit is larger than the upper digit write the complement of the difference between
the digits. (Alternately, add the complement of the lower digit to the upper digit)
Example1: Subtract: 224 – 192. Working from left to right (Mental work)
Step 1: 9 > 2. A (*) is put on 1. So, 1* = 1+1=2.
2 2 4
Step 2: 2 – (1 + 1) = 0, (Write this in 1st column)
- 1* 9 2
Step 3: 2 < 9. So no (*), 2 – 9 + 10 = 3. (2nd column)
0 3 2
(Alternately, complement of 9 from 10 is 1 and 1 + 2 = 3)
The answer is = 32.
Step 4: 4 > 2. So, 4 – 2 = 2, (3rd column)
Example 2: Subtract: 322 – 197. Working from left to right (Mental work)
Step 1: 9 > 2. A (*) is put on 1. So, 1* = 1+1=2.
3 2 2
7 > 3. A *(*) is put on 9. So, 9* = 9+1=10.
- 1* 9* 7
Step 2: 3 – (1 + 1) = 1, (Write this in 1st column)
1 2 5
Step 3: 2 < 9*.So, 2 – (9 + 1) + 10 = 2. (2nd column)
The answer is = 125.
(Alternately, complement of 10 from 10 is 0 and 0 + 2 = 2)
Step 4: 2<7So, 2 – 7 + 10 = 5, (3rd column)
(Alternately, complement of 7 from 10 is 3 and 3 + 2 = 5)
Final answer is 125.
Multiplication
In mathematics multiplication is harder than addition and subtraction. In Vedic Mathematics we have
simpler methods. Before taking up them we will discuss some special cases.
Multiplication by 11
Multiplication of a number by 11 is very easy. It is as good as addition. This method is explained below.
Method
• Sandwich the given number between zeros.
• Starting from left end add the digits taking them in pairs.
• If the total exceeds 9, retain the first digit and carry over the other digits to the left.
0584030 4 + 0 = 4, 0 + 3 = 3, 3 + 0 = 3.
532433
11
642433
Thus, 58403 x 11 = 642433
The above method can be extended to multiply any number by numbers like 111, 1111, 11111, etc.
Sandwich the given number between a pair of zeros and add the digits in threesome (taking three at a
time).
Example 3: Multiply 123 x 111 Working from left to right (Mental work)
520146 8 + 6 + 0 = 14, 6 + 0 + 0 = 6.
1221
642246
Thus, 5786 x 111 = 642246
Multiplication by 12
This is similar to the one discussed earlier. But, there is a slight difference. This employs the Vedic
Sutra "Ultimate and twice the penultimate". According to this, we must add twice the penultimate digit to
the ultimate digit.
Consider the number 32. Here, penultimate digit is 3 and the ultimate digit is 2. By the above Sutra,
the required sum = 3 x 2 + 2 = 8.
123 x 12 Write the multiplicand as shown and add twice the penultimate
01230 digit to ultimate digit.
1476 0 x 2 + 1 = 1, 1 x 2 + 2 = 4,
Thus, 123 x 12 = 1476 2 x 2 + 3 = 7, 3 x 2 + 0 = 6.
396 x 12 Write the multiplicand as shown and add twice the penultimate
0396 0 digit to ultimate digit.
3542 0 x 2 + 3 = 3, 3 x 2 + 9 = 15,
121 9 x 2 + 6 = 24, 6 x 2 + 0 = 12.
4752
Thus, 396 x 12 = 4752
This method can be extended for multiplication with 13, 14, 15, … , 19 with little modification. Instead
of twice we have to take three times, four times, etc. Try this!
Ekadhikena Multiplication
This is another simple method. The Vedic Sutra used in this method is "One more than the previous
one" – Ekadhikena. Two different cases arise here.
The numbers used in this method must obey the following conditions.
Both the numbers must have the same previous digit(s).
The sum of the last digits must be 10.
Numbers like 54 and 56, 42 and 48, 23 and 27, 34 and 36 form the examples.
Method
• Divide the answer space into LHS and RHS by Place a slash (/) or a colon (:).
• Use Ekadhikena (Previous digit +1) to the digit on the LHS.
• Write the product of last digits on the RHS.
• Take care to see that RHS has two digits, as it should be. (Digit rule)
• Remove the slash or colon.
Same previous digit: 5, Same previous digit: 6, Same previous digits: 12,
Sum of last digits: 1+9=10. Sum of last digits: 6+4=10. Sum of last digits: 3+7=10.
51 x 59 66 x 64 123 x 127
5 x (5+1) / 1 x 9 6 x (6+1) / 6 x 4 12 x (12+1) / 3 x 7
30 / 09 42 / 24 156 / 21
Thus, 51x59=3009. Thus, 66 x 64=4224. Thus, 123 x 127=15621.
Note that 0 has been added on RHS.
When the numbers are equal and end with 5, they satisfy both the conditions. Then the product of the
numbers gives the square of that number. Thus, the square of a number ending with 5 can be computed
as above. In all such cases RHS will always be 25. These computations can be done mentally.
Find the square of 35. Find the square of 75. Find the square of 155.
Ekanyunena Multiplication
Ekanyunena is a Vedic Sutra which states that "One less than the previous one". This Sutra is useful in
multiplying a number with multipliers having only 9's (9, 99, 999, 9999, ….). This is also a quick method
and done mentally within no time. The answer can be written in one line.
Method
• Place a slash (/) or a colon (:) to separate answer into two parts, LHS and RHS.
• Subtract 1 from the multiplicand (Ekanyunena) and write it on LHS.
• Write the complement of multiplicand (from the base of multiplier) on RHS.
• Remove the slash or colon.
Three different situations need our attention.
76 x 99 LHS = 76 – 1 = 75 (Ekanyunena)
76 – 1 / 24 RHS =100–76= 24 (Complement of 76 from 100)
7524
Thus, 76 x 99 = 7524
Example 3: Multiply 353 x 999 Working from left to right (Mental work)
In this case, we equalize the number of digits both in multiplicand and multiplier by prefixing required
number of zeros with the multiplicand.
06 x 99 LHS = 6 – 1 = 5 (Ekanyunena)
6-1 / 94 RHS = 100–06 = 94 (complement of 06 from 100)
594 (We can directly write the complement of 06 = 94)
Thus, 6 x 99 = 594
7/2 x 9 LHS = 72 – 1 –7 = 64
72 – 1 – 7 /8 RHS = 10 – 2 = 8 (complement of 2 from 10)
71 – 7 / 8
648
Thus, 72 x 9 = 648
As pointed earlier the powers of 10, i.e., 10, 100, 1000, etc. are taken as base. In Vedic Mathematics
numbers can be expressed in base system. This helps us to make various computations easier.
The difference between the number and the nearest base is called deviation. If the number is less than
the base, the deviation will be negative. On the other hand, if h number is more than the base, the
deviation will be positive. The combination of the number and its deviation forms the base system.
The following table gives us an idea of writing the number in base system.
8 10 8 – 10 = – 2 8–2
12 10 12 – 10 = +2 12 + 2
96 100 96 – 100 = – 4 96 – 4
106 100 106 – 100 = + 6 106 + 6
86 100 86 – 100 = – 14 86 – 14
112 100 112 – 100 = + 12 112 + 12
Nikhilam Multiplication
As the deviation is obtained by Nikhilam sutra we call the method as Nikhilam multiplication. This is a
special method to multiply two numbers near a base or one number near the base and the other a little
away from the base. The method of multiplication is given below.
Method
• Write the numbers one below the other in base system.
• Divide the answer space into LHS and RHS by placing a slash (/) or a colon (:).
• Add or subtract one number with the deviation of the other number and write it on the LHS. (i.e.,
cross-sum or cross-difference)
• Write the product of the deviations on RHS.
• The number of digits on RHS must be same as the number of zeros in the base. If less, prefix the
answer with the zeros. If more, transfer extra digits to the RHS. (Digit Rule)
• Take due care to the sign (+/–) while adding or multiplying the numbers.
• Remove the slash.
Three different cases are possible.
Here, both deviations are positive and the product of the deviations will also be positive.
Example 3: Multiply 101 x 108. Working from left to right (Mental work)
Example 4: Multiply 111 x 123. Working from left to right (Mental work)
Thus,1003x1857=1859562
Case III: One number below the base and one number above the base.
Here, one deviation is negative, another deviation is positive; product of deviations will be negative.
Example 3:
740 /–1596 Transfer 2x1000 from LHS to RHS. (1000 is the base)
738404
Thus, 734 x 1006 = 738404
Uphill now, we studied the multiplication of numbers near a base. We shall consider the case of
multiplication of numbers having a common working base (WB). We define the base factor (BF) as,
WorkingBase
BF =
NormalBase
Consider the multiplication of 43 x 46. Here, working base is 40 = 4 x 10, where 4 is BF, such that, 43
= 4 x 10 + 3 and 46 = 4 x 10 + 6. We proceed as usual. But, we have to multiply the LHS by BF, i.e., 4
here.
General Multiplication
So far we have discussed some special cases of multiplication. Vedic Mathematics gives a hint to
multiply any two given numbers. The Vedic Sutra "Vertically and Crosswise" – Urdhva Tiryak – helps us to
this goal. In this method multiplication can be done from left to right or from right to left.
An (n x n) digit multiplication gives 2n or (2n – 1) digits. The format and the methods are given
below.
Method
The method can be remembered easily with the help of the following diagrams.
Each dot denotes a digit and the lines represent the multiplication of digit pairs.
2448
Thus, 34 x 72 = 2448
Method
The method can be remembered easily with the help of the following diagrams.
Each dot denotes a digit and the lines represent the multiplication of digit pairs.
Example 2: Multiply 738 x 659 Working from left to right (Mental work)
Example 3: Multiply 574 x 836 Working from left to right (Mental work)
Example 4: Multiply 972 x 638 Working from left to right (Mental work)
Method
The method can be remembered easily with the help of the following diagrams.
Each dot denotes a digit and the lines represent the multiplication of digit pairs.
Example 1: Multiply 2463 x 3728 Working from left to right (Mental work)
Example 3: Multiply 5743 x 6859 Working from left to right (Mental work)
Summary
So far we studied various methods of multiplication. But, one may like to know which method suits
best? The choice is personal. All methods give the same result as will be seen below. We must select the
simplest and easiest method.
Let us consider a problem worked out by different methods. Suppose we want to multiply –>
95 x 95.
By Ekadhika Multiplication. By Nikhilam Multiplication. By Urdhva Tiryak Method.
Division
Division is the hardest of all the arithmetical operations. The traditional method of division is always the
same irrespective of the divisor. But in Vedic Mathematics there are different methods depending on the
nature of the divisor.
The format for division in Vedic Mathematics is shown below.
Divisor Dividend
Quotient / Remainder
We shall discuss various methods of division in Vedic Mathematics.
Division by 9.
Division by 9 is the simplest one in Vedic Mathematics. We divide the dividend by the devisor to get
quotient and remainder. When the remainder is equal to or greater than 9 we re-divide the remainder by 9,
carry over this quotient to the quotient side and retain the final remainder in the remainder side. We shall
study the method by some illustrations.
Example 1: Divide 12 ÷ 9. Working (Mental)
Dividend = 12, Step 1: Write the devisor and dividend as shown.
Devisor = 9. Step 2: Set off last digit for the remainder by a slash (/) or colon (:).
9 1/2 Step 3: Enter 0 under 1st digit and add. This gives quotient, Q = 1.
0 1 Step 4: Write the result (i.e., 1) under 2nd digit and add to get
1/3 2 + 1 = 3. This gives the Remainder, R= 3.Thus, 12 ÷ 9 –> Q = 1, R = 3.
Example 2: Working (Mental)
Divide 123 ÷ 9. Step 1: Write the devisor and dividend as shown.
Dividend = 123, Step 2: Set off last digit for the remainder by a slash (/) or colon (:).
Devisor = 9. Step 3: Enter 0 under 1st digit and add. This gives quotient, Q = 1.
Step 4: Write the result (i.e., 1) under 2nd digit and add to get 2+1=3.
9 12/3 Division is over and Q = 13.
01 3 Step 5: Write this result (i.e., 3) under 3rd digit and add 3+3=6.This gives
13/6 the Remainder, R= 6.
Thus, 12 ÷ 9 –> Q = 13, R = 6.
Example 3: Working (Mental)
Divide 2340 ÷ 9. Step 1: Write the devisor and dividend as shown.
Dividend = 2340, Step 2: Set off last digit for the remainder by a slash (/) or colon (:).
Devisor = 9. Step 3: Enter 0 under 1st digit and add. This gives quotient, Q = 2.
Step 4: Write the result (i.e., 2) under 2nd digit and add to get 3+2=5.
9 234/0 Step 5: Write this result (i.e., 5) under 3rd digit and add to get 4+5=9.
025 9 Step 6: Write this result (i.e., 9) under the 4th digit and add to get 0+
259/9 9 =9. Remainder, R= 9.
1/0 As the remainder is equal to 9, we re-divide it by 9 and compute new
260/0 quotient and remainder.
Thus we get, 2340 ÷ 9 –> Q = 260, R = 0.
Example 4: Working (Mental)
Divide 3509 ÷ 9. Step 1: Write the devisor and dividend as shown.
Dividend = 3509, Step 2: Set off last digit for the remainder by a slash (/) or colon (:).
Devisor = 9. Step 3: Enter 0 under 1st digit and add. This gives quotient, Q = 3.
Step 4: Write the result (i.e., 3) under 2nd digit and add to get 5+3=8.
9 350/9 Step 5: Write this result (i.e., 8) under 3rd digit and add to get 0+8=8.
038/8 Step 6: Write this result (i.e., 8) under the 4th digit and add to get 9+
3 8 8 / 17 8 =17. Remainder, R= 17.
1/8 As the remainder is greater than 9, we re-divide it by 9 and compute new
38 9/8 quotient and remainder.
Thus we get, 3509 ÷ 9 –> Q = 389, R = 8.
Division By 8.
This method is similar to the one with division by 9. The only difference is, we write 2, the complement
of 8, below 8. Every time we multiply the quotient digit by 2 and add it to the next digit. When the
remainder is equal to or greater than 8 we re-divide the remainder by 8, carry over this quotient to the
quotient side and retain the final remainder on the remainder side.
Dividend = 13, Step 2: Set off last digit for the remainder by a slash (/) or colon (:).
Devisor = 8. Step 3: Enter 0 under 1st digit and add. This gives quotient, Q = 1.
2 0 2 Thus, 13 ÷ 8 → Q = 1, R = 5.
1/5
Dividend = 257, Step 2: Set off last digit for the remainder by a slash (/) or colon (:).
Devisor = 8. Step 3: Enter 0 under 1st digit and add. This gives quotient, Q = 2.
Nikhilam Division
This method is useful for division with the devisors nearer and below the base. The method consists in
finding the complement of the devisor using Nikhilam Sutra "All from 9". Hence, the method is called
Nikhilam division.
Method
Paravartya Division
This method is useful for division with the devisors nearer and above the base. The method is similar
to Nikhilam division, but slightly different. It uses the Vedic Sutra "Transpose and apply" known as
Paravartya. We leave the first digit, and change the sign of other digit or digits with minus (-) sign and
place them below the divisor. This is the meaning of ‘ transpose and apply ’.
Method
Straight Division
This is the general method of division applicable to all types of division. This uses the combination of
Vedic Sutras: "Dhvajanka and Urdhva Tiryak". The meaning of the word Dhvajanka is "flag digit", since it is
written as a flag little above the operator digit. The method is given below.
Method
• Separate the first digit of the devisor from other digits. The first digit is called operator and other
digits are called flag digits.
• Flag digits are placed at a higher level above the operator.
• Divide the dividend into two parts – quotient part and remainder part – using a slash (/) or a
colon (:).
• The number of digits in the remainder part must be same as the number of flag digits.
• Divide the first digit (or first two digits) by the operator to get a partial quotient and a remainder.
• This remainder with the next digit of the quotient part of dividend forms the gross dividend (GD).
• Find the product of flag digits and partial quotient to get the flag dividend (FD).
• FD is calculated using Urdhva Tiryak. Note the method of calculation carefully.
• The difference between GD and FD gives net dividend ND.
• Divide ND further by the operator to get the next partial quotient and remainder.
• Repeat the process with the remaining digits of the quotient part.
• Finally, evaluate the remainder (R=ND–FD).
The above steps are illustrated in the example below.
2 5 2 8: 4
3 2 2 :1
1 6 5 :4
Here, 3 –> operator, 2 –> flag digit.
Note that the remainder part has only one digit. (Guess)
Working (Mental)
Step 1: 5 ÷ 3 = 1 R 2
(Read Q=1, R=2). Written as above.
GD = 22, FD = 2 x 1 = 2
ND = 22 – 2 = 20 ÷ 3 = 6 R 2, written as above.
Step 2: GD = 28, FD =2 x 6 = 12
ND = 28 – 12 = 16 ÷ 3 = 5 R1, written as above.
Here, division is over. We shall calculate the remainder as below.
Step 3: GD = 14, FD = 2x5=10.
Remainder = 14 – 10 = 4.
Hence, 5284 ÷ 32 --> Q = 165, R = 4.
3 3 2 7: 5
2 1 1 :1
1 4 2 :9
Here, 2 –> operator, 3 –> flag digit.
Working (Mental)
3 5 6 7: 8
4 1 1 :0
1 3 2 :2
Here, 4 –> operator, 3 –> flag digit.
Working (Mental)
4 27 5 4: 3
6 3 1 :2
4 3 0: 23
Here, 6 –> operator, 4 –> flag digit.
Working (Mental)
Working (Mental)
13 29 9 9 2: 22
7 1 1 5 :4
4 2 0 6 : 344
Here, 7 –> operator, 13 –> flag digits.
Working (Mental)
12 35 7: 69
5 5 :6
6 9 :441
Here, 5 –> operator, 12 –> flag digits.
Working (Mental)
341 16 3: 758
5 1 :4
3 0 : 3528
Here, 5 –> operator, 341 –> flag digits.
Working (Mental)
Working (Mental)
234 12 3 4 5: 678
8 4 9 11 :9
1 4 4 9 : 2912
Here, 8 –> operator, 234 –> flag digits.
Working (Mental)
Summary
So far we studied various methods of division. But, one may like to know which method suits best? The
choice is personal. All methods give the same result as will be seen below. We must select the simplest and
easiest method.
Let us consider a problem worked out by different methods. Suppose we want to divide 2345 by 98.
Ekadhika method
We studied earlier the method of finding the square of numbers ending in 5 under Ekadhika
multiplication. E.g., 352 = 3 x 4 / 25 = 1225,
652 = 6 x 7 / 25 = 4225, etc.
If the number is large we can use Urdhva Tiryak multiplication in concurrence to achieve this. This is
illustrated in the following examples.
Example 1: Find the square of 285. Example 2: Find the square of 1235.
Yavadunam Method
The Vedic Sutra "Deviate as much as deviation and add square of the deviation". This is known as
Yavadunam Sutra. We shall see the application of this Sutra to find the square of numbers.
The answer consists of 2 portions as given here under.
• The excess (deviation) is added to the number. This forms the Left Portion of the answer.
• The square of the initial excess forms the Right Portion of the answer.
This is explained below with examples.
To find the square of any number we use the Vedic Sutra Dwandva Yoga or Duplex System. Duplex of
a number is formed (i) by squaring and (ii) by cross-multiplying. If the digit is single central digit, the
Duplex is a square and for an even number of digits equidistant from the two ends the Duplex is twice the
cross - product. Duplex of numbers are defined as follows:
No Duplex Example
a D(a) = a2 D(2) = 22 =4
ab D(ab) = 2ab D(23) = 2x2x3=12
abc D(abc)= b2+2ac D(234) = 22+2x3x4=28
abcd D(abcd)=2ad+2bc D(2345) = 2x2x5+2x3x4=44
We use Duplex system to find the square of numbers. Observe that for a n-digit number, the square of
the number contains 2n or (2n-1) digits.
The square root of a perfect square can be found by division method. Before finding the square root of
a number we must know 3 things.
• Number of digits in the square root.
If the number has n-digits, the square root will have n/2 or (n+1)/2 digits.
• First digit of the square root must be known. The number is divided into groups of 2 digits from
right to left. The nearest square root of the first group gives the first square root digit.
• The devisor must also be known.
Twice the first square root digit is taken as devisor.
• While dividing we use Duplex of digits from second digit onwards.
Summary
So far we studied various methods of squaring. But, one may like to know which method suits best?
The choice is personal. All methods give the same result as will be seen below. We must select the simplest
and easiest method.
Let us consider a problem worked out by different methods. Suppose we want to find the square of 95.
Find the square of 95. Find the square of 95. Find the square of 95.
Digits 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Cubes 1 8 27 64 125 216 343 512 729
Thus, the cubes of digits have unique end digits.
We shall next study the method of cubing a number.
Yavadunam Method
This method explained earlier can be used in this case also, with modifications. The answer consists of
3 portions as given here under.
• Twice the excess (deviation) is added to the number. This forms Left Portion of the answer.
• The product of new excess and the original excess forms the Middle Portion of the answer.
• The cube of the initial excess forms the Right Portion of the answer.
This is explained below with examples.
Example 1: Find the cube of 13. Example 2: Find the cube of 106.
Example 5: Find the cube of 93. Example 6: Find the cube of 995.
To find cube of any number directly we use the formula: (a + b)3 = a3 + 3a2b + 3ab2 + b3
We rewrite this as
a3 a2b ab2 b3
2a2b 2ab2
a3 3a2b 3ab2 b3
The form makes it easy to compute the cube any 2 digit number. The following examples will show
how this could be done.
Method
• Find the values of a3, a2b, ab2, b3 and write them as shown.
• Also double the vales of a2b, ab2 and write them under respective column.
• Compute the cube of the number from the result.
Example 1: Find the cube of 26. Example 2: Find the cube of 84.
Here, a = 2, b = 6. Here, a = 8, b = 4.
8 24 72 216 512 256 128 64
48 144 512 256
8 72 216 216 512 768 384 64
8266 512844
711 686
22 73
17576 592704
Hence, 263 = 17576 Hence, 843 = 592704
Example 3: Find the cube of 33. Example 4: Find the cube of 47.
Here, a = 3, b = 3. Here, a = 4, b = 7.
27 27 27 27 64 112 196 343
54 54 224 392
27 81 81 27 64 336 588 343
27117 64683
882 384
35937 353
Hence, 333 = 35937 103823
Hence, 473 = 103823
The cube root of a perfect cube can be found by division method. Before finding the cube root of a
number we must know 3 things.
• Number of digits in the cube root.
If the number has n-digits, the cube root will have n/3 or (n+1)/3 or (n+2)/3 digits.
• First digit of the cube root must be known.
The number is divided into groups of 3 digits from right to left. The nearest cube root of the first
group gives the first cube root digit.
• The devisor must also be known.
Thrice the square of first cube root digit is taken as the devisor.
13 8 2 4 64 – 64 =0 ÷ 12 = 0 R 0
12 5 10 6 Hence, Cube Root of 13824 = 24.
24.00
Example 2:
Divisibility
If we divide one number by another number and get a whole number, we say that the first number is
divisible by the second. This property of division is called divisibility. For example,
25 is divisible by 5.
12 is divisible by 2, 3, 4, 6.
63 is divisible by 3, 7, 9. etc.
Divisibility Criteria - Here are divisibility Criteria for a first few integers:
Suppose we want to find whether a number is divisible by prime numbers like 7, 13, 17, 19 . . . we
have no clue in our modern mathematics. But, Vedic Mathematics gives us a nice method to do it.
Any number can be split into prime numbers. A number divisible by itself or 1 is called prime number.
Otherwise, it is a composite number. To find the divisibility of one number by another number, we must try
division by prime numbers. A number divisible by a composite number is also divisible by all its prime
factors.
The prime numbers within 100 are given below:
2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23, 29, 31, 37, 41, 43, 47, 51, 53, 57, 59, 61, 67, 71, 73, 79, 83, 87, 89, 91
and 97.
Operators
We observe that the prime numbers have 1, 3, 7,9 as end digits. We can convert such numbers either
to end with 1 or 9 using a multiplier.
Devisor Operator
19 1+1=2
29 2+1=3
39 3+1=4
49 4+1=5
etc etc
Negative operator is used with devisors ending in 1. Just dropping end digit 1 gets it. Here are some
negative operators.
Devisor Operator
11 1
21 2
31 3
41 4
etc etc
Here, Operator = 1 + 1 = 2.
Now, 171 –> 17 + 1x2 = 17 + 2 = 19.
Hence, given number is divisible.
Here, Operator = 2 + 1 = 3.
Now, 348 –>34 + 8x3 = 34 + 24 = 58
58 –> 5 + 8x3 = 5 + 24 = 29.
Hence, given number is divisible.
Here, Operator = 4 + 1 = 5.
Now, 1764 –> 176 + 4x5 = 176 + 20 = 196
196 –> 19 + 6x5 = 19 + 30 = 49.
Hence, the result.
Recurring Decimals
A decimal with a sequence of digits that repeats itself indefinitely is called recurring decimal.
The Vedic Sutra Ekadhika helps us to convert Vulgar fractions of the type 1/p9, where p = 1, 2, 3, . . .
9, into recurring decimals. The number of decimal places before repetition is the difference of numerator
and denominator. The devisor can be found using Sutra "One more than the previous one".
Conversion of a few vulgar fractions is shown below. The method is simple and does not require actual
division. It is only simple division with small figures.
Equations
Simple Equations
A simple equation consists of one variable or unknown. The variable may be present on one side or
both sides. To solve such problems the Vedic Sutra “Transpose and apply” (Paravartya Sutra) comes to our
rescue. We can transpose the terms from left to right or from right to left. In such cases, positive(+) sign
becomes negative(–) sign and vice versa. We can also change numerator to denominator or denominator to
numerator. Then multiplication(×) sign becomes division(÷) sign and vice versa.
Paravartya Method
We shall consider the following types of equation under simple equations.
Type 1: ax + b = cx + d. Solution: x = d − b
a−c
Example 1: Solve: 3x + 5 = 5x – 3.
Here, a = 3, b = 5, c = 5, d = –3.
∴ x = d −b = −3−5 = 4
a−c 3−5
--> 2x + 3 = 3x – 3
Here, a = 2, b = 3, c = 3, d = –3.
∴ x=
d − b −3−3
= =6
a−c 2−3
Type 2: (x + a) (x + b) = (x + c) (x + d)
Example 1: Solve: (x + 1) ( x + 2) = ( x – 3) (x – 4)
∴ x= cd − ab ( −3 × −4) − (1 × 2)
= =1
( a + b) − (c + d ) (1 + 2) − ( −3 − 4)
Example 2: Solve: (x + 3) ( x + 2) = ( x – 3) (x – 2)
∴ x= cd − ab (−3 × −2) − (3 × 2)
= =0
(a + b) − (c + d) (3 + 2) − (−3 − 2)
ax + b m md − bn
Type 3: = Solution: x =
cx + d n an − mc
Example: Solve: 2x + 3 = 1
5x + 4 2
Here, a = 2, b = 3, c = 5, d = 4, m = 1, n = 2.
∴ x = md − bn = 1 × 4 − 3 × 2 = − 2 = 2
an − mc 2 × 2 − 1× 5 −1
Type 4:
m n − (mb + na )
+ = 0 Solution: x =
x+a x+b (m + n )
Example: Solve: 2 3
+ =0
x+2 x+7
Here, a = 2, b = 7, m = 2, n = 3.
∴ x = − ( mb + na ) = − (2 × 7 + 3 × 2) = − 20 = −4
(m + n ) ( 2 + 3) 5
Next we shall explore another Vedic Sutra “Common group is zero” (Sunyam Samya Sutra). The group
may be a single variable or an expression and it should be equated to zero. We shall consider the following
cases.
Example 1: 2x + 3x = 5x + x.
Example: Solve: 1 1
+ =0
2x + 3 x − 6
Here, D1 + D2 = 2x + 3 + x – 6 = 0 or 3x – 3 = 0. ∴ x = 1, is the solution.
Example 1: Solve: 3x + 4 = 2 x + 11
2x + 11 3x + 4
Here, N1 + N2 = 3x + 4 + 2x + 11 = 5x + 15
D1 + D2 = 2x + 11 + 3x + 4 = 5x + 15
D1 + D2 = 4x + 5 + 2x + 3 = 6x + 8 = 2(3x + 4)
If N1 + N2 = D1 + D2 and N1 ~ D1 = N2 ~ D2 then
Example: Solve:
3x + 4 5x + 6
=
6x + 7 2x + 3
N1 + N2 = 3x + 4 + 5x + 6 = 8x + 10
D1 + D2 = 6x + 7 + 2x + 3 = 8x + 10
N1 ~ D1 = 3x + 4 – 5x – 6 = –2x – 2 = –(x + 1)
N2 ~ D2 = 6x + 7 – 2x – 3 = 4x – 4 = 4(x + 1)
Since N1 + N2 = D1 + D2 = 8x + 10 and N1 ~ D1 = N2 ~ D2 = x + 1,
If D1 + D2 = D3 + D4, then D1 + D2 = D3 + D4 = 0.
Example: Solve:
1 1 1 1
+ = +
x − 7 x − 9 x − 6 x − 10
Here, D1 + D2 = x – 7 + x – 9 = 2x – 16
D3 + D4 = x – 6 + x – 10 = 2x – 16
Simultaneous Equations
Solving simultaneous equations by conventional method is tedious. But Vedic mathematics gives us a
simple and elegant method to find the solution. We discuss three categories under Vedic mathematics.
Category 1: Equal ratios of coefficients of x (or y) and constants.
To solve simultaneous equations of this type, we use the Vedic Sutra: “ If one is in ratio, the other one
is zero”. i.e., If the ratio of coefficients of one variable is equal to the ratio of the constants then the other
variable is zero. In such a case, we get two simple equations in one variable. The solution of either
equation gives the value of this variable.
Example 1: Solve: 2x + 3 y = 6
5x + 6 y = 12
Therefore, x = 0, and 3 y = 6 or 6 y = 12 → y = 2.
Thus, x = 0, y = 2.
Example 2: Solve: 12 x + 5 y = 36
36 x + 6 y = 108
Thus, x = 3, y = 0.
Example 1: Solve: 5 x + 7 y = 31
7 x + 5 y = 29
By addition: 12 x + 12 y = 60 → x + y = 5
By subtraction: –2 x + 2 y = 2 →–x+y=1
Thus, x = 2, y = 3.
Example 2: Solve: 43 x – 27 y = 16
27 x – 43 y = –16
By addition: 70 x – 70 y = 0 → x – y = 0
By subtraction: 16 x + 16 y = 32 → x + y = 2
By adding last two equations we get, 2 x = 2 or x = 1.
Thus, x = 1, y = 1.
The method used under this category is given below. Let us consider the equations,
ax+by=p
cx+dy=q
Method:
b p a
d q c
2. Find the cross-products, (bq – pd), (pc – aq) and (bc – ad)
bq − pd
x= And y = pc − aq
bc − ad bc − ad
Example 1: Solve: 2x + 3y = 13
7x + 5y = 29
5 29 7
∴ (3 × 29) − (13 × 5) 87 − 65 22
x= = = =2
(3 × 7) − (2 × 5) 21 − 10 11
(13 × 7) − ( 2 × 29) 91 − 58 33
y= = = =3
(3 × 7) − ( 2 × 5) 21 − 10 11
Example 2: Solve: 3x + 4y = 17
5x – 7y = 1
–7 1 5
Example 3: Solve: 4x – 3y = 11
7x – 5y = 20
–5 20 7
∴
(−3 × 20) − (11× −5) − 60 + 55 − 5
x= = = =5
(−3 × 7) − (4 × −5) − 21 + 20 − 1
(11 × 7) − (4 × 20) 77 − 80 −3
y= = = =3
( −3 × 7) − ( 4 × −5) − 21 + 20 − 1
Quadratic Equations
A second degree equation in one variable is called the quadratic equation. Often we come across such
equations in practice. The normal method consists in factorizing the given expression into factors and
finding the answer by equating each factor to zero. Sometimes it becomes inconvenient and cumbersome in
factorizing. In such cases we may use the direct method given below.
Consider the quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, c are constants. The solution to this
equation is given by
− b ± b 2 − 4ac
x=
2a
Example 1: Solve: x2 + 5x + 6 = 0
Here, a = 1, b = 5, c = 6.
Therefore, x = − 5 ± 25 − 4 × 1× 6 = − 5 ± 1
2 ×1 2
∴ x = –2 or x = –3
Example 2: Solve: x2 – 2x – 15 = 0
Therefore, x = 2 ± 4 − (4 × 1 × −15) = 2 ± 8
2 ×1 2
∴ x = 5 or x = –3
5 ± 25 − (4 × 6 × −6) 5 ± 13
Therefore, x = =
2× 6 12
∴ x = 3/2 or x = –2/3
Fractions
The concept of fractions is not properly understood by many. We are familiar with whole numbers. We
can add, subtract, multiply and divide whole numbers. When it comes to fractions we feel confused. To get
a clear picture of the situation it is found necessary to add a note on fractions.
• The denominator tells us how many parts a whole thing is divided into.
• The numerator tells how many parts are taken out of it.
E.g., The fraction 3/8 tells us that the whole thing is divided into 8 parts and 3 parts are taken out of it.
Here 3 is the numerator and 8 is the denominator.
Types of Fractions
We classify the fractions into the following types.
Proper fractions – A fraction in which numerator is less than denominator. e.g., 2/3, 3/7. 4/5,
Improper fractions – A fraction in which numerator is greater than denominator. e.g., 5/3, 9/7. 12/5,
Mixed fractions - A fraction consisting of two parts, an integer and a fraction. e.g., 2 3 , 5 1 , 7 2 , etc.
4 3 5
Decimal fractions – A fraction in which the denominator is 10 or powers of 10, viz. 100, 1000, 10000,
… e.g., 2/10, 23/100, 126/1000,
e.g., 2 3 = 4×2 + 3 = 11 .
4 4 4
(ii) An improper fraction can be converted into mixed fraction.
e.g., 11 = 8 + 3 = 2 + 3 = 2 3
4 4 4 4
Equivalent Fractions
Fractions that have the same value are called equivalent fractions. Equivalent fractions are obtained by
multiplying or dividing both numerator and denominator of the fraction by the same number.
By multiplying both numerator and denominator successively by 2, 3, 4,..., we get equivalent fractions.
1 2 6 12 .
E.g., , , ,
2 4 12 24
Similarly, by dividing both numerator and denominator also successively by 2, 3, 4,..., we get
Two or more fractions can be compared with each other. To find the greater of the given fractions we
must make their denominators equal. Then the fraction with greater numerator is the greatest.
Suppose we want to compare two fractions a/b and c/d. Cross multiply the numerator of one fraction
by the denominator of other fraction. The fraction with greater cross-product is larger.
Suppose we want to compare three fractions a/b, c/d and e/f. Cross multiply the numerator of one
fraction by the denominator of the other two fractions. The fraction with greater cross-product is larger.
a c e a × d × f : c × b × f :e × b × d
e.g., : : ⇒ .
b d f bdf
e
If a × d × f > c × b × f > e × b × d then a > c > and vice versa.
b d f
Example: Which one is the greatest 3/5, 5/7, 7/9?
Note: By converting the fractions to decimals we can also find the greatest fraction. In the present
case, 3/5 = 0.60, 5/7 = 0.71 and 7/9 = 0.77. Thus, 7/9 is the greatest.
Two fractions can be added, subtracted, multiplied or divided as is done with whole numbers.
However, mixed fractions must be converted into improper fractions before such methods. The final result
may be expressed as a mixed fraction after simplification.
Addition of fractions
Solution: 2 + 3 = 2 × 4 + 3 × 3 = 17 = 1 5
3 4 3× 4 12 12
Solution: 5 + 7 = 5 × 9 + 7 × 8 = 101 = 1 29
8 9 8× 9 72 72
Subtraction of fractions
Solution: 5 − 4 = 5 × 7 − 4 × 6 = 11
6 7 6×7 42
Solution: 2 − 1 = 2 × 4 − 1 × 3 = 5
3 4 3× 4 12
Multiplication of fractions
We can multiply two or more fractions with each other.
Solution: 2 × 3 = 2 × 3 = 6 = 1
3 4 3 × 4 12 2
Solution: 6 × 7 = 6 × 7 = 42 = 2
7 9 7 × 9 63 3
Division of fractions
In symbols,
a c a d a×d
÷ = × =
b d b c b×c
Example 1: Divide 5/7 by 3/5.
Solution: 5 ÷ 3 = 5 × 5 = 5 × 5 = 25 = 1 4
7 5 7 3 7 × 3 21 21
Solution: 3 ÷ 1 = 3 × 6 = 3 × 6 = 18 = 9 = 1 1
8 6 8 1 8 ×1 8 4 4