Multiplication is a fundamental skill in mathematics, but traditional methods can sometimes be slow and cumbersome—especially when dealing with large numbers. Fortunately, Vedic Math offers several quick and efficient techniques to multiply large numbers in seconds. These methods are widely used in competitive exams, mental math challenges, and everyday calculations.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the fastest Vedic Math techniques to multiply large numbers without relying on a calculator.
Why Use Vedic Math for Multiplication?
Vedic Math is an ancient Indian system that simplifies complex calculations using mental math tricks and shortcuts. Here’s why it’s beneficial:
✅ Faster than traditional methods – Reduces steps, making calculations quicker.
✅ Improves mental agility – Sharpens your brain and enhances numerical skills.
✅ Eliminates dependency on calculators – Helps in exams and daily calculations.
✅ Boosts confidence – Makes math fun and effortless.
Let’s dive into the fastest multiplication techniques that will transform the way you solve math problems!
1. Urdhva-Tiryagbhyam (Vertically and Crosswise) – The General Multiplication Rule
The Urdhva-Tiryagbhyam Sutra (meaning “vertically and crosswise”) is a universal multiplication method that works for all numbers and is significantly faster than traditional multiplication.
Example 1: Multiply 32 × 21
Step 1: Multiply the last digits (units place):
2 × 1 = 2 → (Write this as the rightmost digit of the answer)
Step 2: Cross multiply and add:
(3 × 1) + (2 × 2) = 3 + 4 = 7
Step 3: Multiply the first digits (tens place):
3 × 2 = 6
✔ Final Answer: 672
The same method works for three-digit and four-digit numbers, reducing long multiplication steps.
2. Nikhilam Sutra (Base Method) – When Numbers Are Close to a Power of 10
The Nikhilam Sutra (meaning “all from 9 and last from 10”) is perfect for numbers near 10, 100, 1000, etc..
Example 2: Multiply 98 × 97
Both numbers are close to 100:
- 98 is 2 less than 100 (-2)
- 97 is 3 less than 100 (-3)
Step 1: Multiply the deviations (-2 × -3) = 6 → This forms the rightmost part of the answer.
Step 2: Add crosswise (98 - 3 or 97 - 2) = 95 → This forms the left part of the answer.
✔ Final Answer: 9506
This method is extremely useful for fast calculations and eliminates complex steps!
3. Ekadhikena Purvena – Multiplication by 9, 99, 999
This method helps in quickly multiplying numbers by 9, 99, 999, etc.
Example 3: Multiply 67 × 99
Step 1: Since 99 = 100 - 1, write it as (67 × 100) - 67.
Step 2: Compute:
6700 - 67 = 6633
✔ Final Answer: 6633
This method avoids long multiplication and works instantly.
4. Doubling and Halving Method – Useful for Even Numbers
This trick works best when one number is even, making calculations simpler.
Example 4: Multiply 48 × 25
Step 1: Halve one number and double the other:
48 ÷ 2 = 24, 25 × 2 = 50
Step 2: Multiply the new numbers:
24 × 50 = 1200
✔ Final Answer: 1200
This method reduces multiplication effort and speeds up calculations.
5. Special Case: Squaring Numbers Ending in 5
The “Square of a number ending in 5” trick is a Vedic Math gem!
Example 5: Find 35²
Step 1: Multiply the first digit (3) by its next number (4):
3 × 4 = 12
Step 2: Always append 25 at the end.
✔ Final Answer: 1225
This trick works for any number ending in 5 (e.g., 65² = 4225, 95² = 9025).
6. Criss-Cross Multiplication for Two-Digit Numbers
If you're multiplying any two-digit numbers, this trick speeds things up.
Example 6: Multiply 47 × 56
Break it into three steps:
1️⃣ Multiply units digits: 7 × 6 = 42 (write 2, carry 4).
2️⃣ Cross multiply and add: (4 × 6) + (7 × 5) = 24 + 35 = 59 (+4 from carry = 63, write 3, carry 6).
3️⃣ Multiply first digits: 4 × 5 = 20 (+6 from carry = 26).
✔ Final Answer: 2632
This trick helps you multiply large numbers mentally without long calculations.
Tips to Master Quick Multiplication
📌 Practice daily – The more you use these tricks, the faster you'll get.
📌 Visualize numbers – Picture the breakdown of calculations in your mind.
📌 Apply real-world examples – Use these methods in daily calculations.
📌 Check your speed – Time yourself and aim to improve.
Final Thoughts
Multiplication doesn’t have to be slow or complicated. By using Vedic Math tricks, you can multiply large numbers in seconds—without a calculator!
From Urdhva-Tiryagbhyam (crosswise multiplication) to Nikhilam Sutra (base method), these techniques simplify math and make calculations fun.
Start practicing today and watch your mental math skills skyrocket! 🚀
💡 Which trick did you find the most useful? Share in the comments below! 👇