There are two best friends – Arush & Hrushab – both were good at math as they were preparing together. Hrushab always passes the Maths test with better numbers than Arush.
Reason behind this domination is not just simple preparation to crack any competitive exam, not enough to just knowing the right answer alone will not get through, it is a balance of knowledge with speed that will do the trick and help anyone crack the exam. And Hrushab was doing the same thing which is shared in this blog.
Under increasing pressure to excel in exams like JEE, NEET, CAT and even international exams like SAT and GRE, students are looking for new study tools and strategies. One such tool gaining popularity among students is abacus. But can abacus training really be a secret weapon for students preparing for competitive exams?
The role of the abacus in cognitive development, its benefits in competitive exam preparation, and whether it can truly give students a head start in cracking some of the toughest exams out there.
The Cognitive Power of Abacus Training
The abacus has been used as a mathematical tool for centuries. Though it is primarily used to teach children basic calculus like multiplication, addition, subtraction and division, the benefits of abacus training go far beyond simple arithmetic. Many studies have shown that students who have learnt abacus develop better cognitive abilities, including improved memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.
- Memory Improvement: As it is based on visualization technique where learners are required to visualize numbers in their mind, this helps in activation of both the right and left hemispheres of the brain. Eventually resulting in improved memory retention—a skill that is crucial when preparing for competitive exams that often demand the recollection of vast amounts of information.
- Faster Mental Calculations: An undeniable advantage of abacus training is the ability to perform complex mental calculations quickly.Competitive exams require speed and accuracy. Abacus training allows students to calculate answers faster than traditional methods, saving valuable time on exams.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Competitive tests are not just about knowing formulas—they test how efficiently a student can apply them to solve problems. Abacus training helps develop logical thinking and pattern recognition, both of which are essential in subjects like mathematics and reasoning sections in exams.
Competitive Exams: The Numbers Game
Competitive exams typically include a quantitative section that assesses a student’s aptitude in mathematics and reasoning. Strong mental math skills give students an advantage in a variety of math-related tasks, such as solving algebraic equations, understanding data from statistics, and completing challenging physics problems.
Here’s why the abacus could be a game-changer:
- Speed and Accuracy: Competitive tests have time constraints and require rapid calculation in some sections. Abacus-trained students can solve problems faster, often without needing a calculator or lengthy written methods. For instance, being able to calculate answers quickly can be crucial on tests such as the SAT, where math questions come in both grid-in and multiple-choice formats.
- Reduces Dependence on Calculators: While some exams allow the use of calculators, many competitive exams don’t, especially in early rounds. Even for exams that permit calculators, the speed advantage of mental math can save students time that they can use for more difficult questions.
- Focus and Attention to Detail: Students who receive abacus training learn to mentally track numbers while focusing on several processes at once. This capacity to multitask is especially helpful when taking examinations that have intricate, multi-step questions that assess accuracy as well as speed.
Can Abacus Training Help with Logical and Analytical Reasoning?
Although the abacus in particular is known for developing mathematical ability, it also indirectly supports practical skills in logical reasoning and analysis Many competitive exams have a section that tests reasoning ability, including and pattern recognition, meaning deduction, and critical thinking.
Here’s how abacus training helps in this area:
- Pattern Recognition: Abacus learners become adept at recognizing patterns in numbers, a skill that is crucial for reasoning sections in exams like GRE or GMAT.
- Critical Thinking: Solving abacus problems involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable steps. This skill translates into better problem-solving techniques in logical reasoning questions, where students need to analyze data quickly and make sound decisions.
Beyond Academics: The Abacus for Long-Term Benefits
The value of abacus training is not limited to clearing exams. It prepares students for long-term success by enhancing their intellectual abilities, which can be applied in various areas of life. Competitive exams are often just the first step in a complex academic and professional journey. The intellectual agility, focus, and problem-solving skills that Abacus students develop are assets that will serve them beyond the exam room.
Furthermore, abacus training has been shown to reduce math anxiety—a common issue among students who feel overwhelmed by the quantitative sections of competitive exams. By instilling confidence through early mental math training, the abacus helps students approach math problems with a positive mindset, which is crucial for performing well under pressure.
Should You Consider Abacus Training for Competitive Exam Prep?
The advantages of abacus training are obvious, even though it may not be a popular method for test preparation. Without a question, the abilities developed through abacus training can help students succeed in competitive tests.
Abacus lessons are a wise investment for parents and students seeking a competitive advantage. Early abacus learning, at the age of primary school, helps create a solid foundation that students can build upon as they advance in their academic careers. But even high school and college students can gain from abacus training, especially if they’re getting ready for tests that heavily rely on math, like the GRE, SAT, NEET, or JEE.
Conclusion: A Practical Tool for Success
While the abacus alone won’t guarantee success in competitive exams, it provides a solid foundation in mental math and cognitive development that is difficult to achieve through other methods. As competitive exams continue to challenge students with tough quantitative sections, having an additional tool like the abacus can be a significant advantage.
If you’re looking to give your child—or even yourself—a leg up in competitive exams, consider Delighted Champs for online abacus classes. These programs are designed to help students develop faster mental calculations, improved concentration, and better problem-solving skills—all of which are key for cracking competitive exams. Sign up today and start building the skills that could make all the difference in your academic success!
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Mail: info＠delightedchamps.com
