Vedic Mathematics: Ancient Indian Technique for fast Arithmetic

Vedic Mathematics

Vedic Mathematics is a collection of techniques/sutras to solve mathematical arithmetics in an easy and faster way. It consists of 16 Sutras (Formulae) and 13 sub-sutras (Corollaries). These methods and ideas are derived from the Vedas, the ancient Indian scriptures. The system was rediscovered from these ancient texts by Sri Bharati Krishna Tirthaji, who was a scholar of Sanskrit, Mathematics, History, and Philosophy. He wrote and spoke extensively on the subject in the early to mid-20th century.

Key Features of Vedic Mathematics:

1. Simplification and Speed: Vedic Mathematics often involves less complex computations than conventional methods. This can lead to quicker calculations, making it particularly useful in competitive exams and real-time problem solving.

2. Flexibility: Unlike the traditional methods which usually provide only one way of solving a problem, Vedic methods are often flexible and allow for multiple approaches.

3. Mental Calculation: Many of the Vedic techniques can be done mentally due to their simplicity, reducing the dependency on paper and pen.

4. Applications: Vedic Mathematics techniques can be applied in a variety of branches of mathematics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, and conic sections.

Sutras: Some of the sutras include 'All from 9 and the last from 10', which simplifies subtraction, and 'Vertically and Crosswise', which is used in multiplication and solving simultaneous equations among other applications.

While Vedic Mathematics has its advocates and has been integrated into some educational curriculums, it is also subject to criticism. Some educators argue that its methods are not universally applicable to all mathematical problems and that it oversimplifies some aspects of traditional mathematics education.

Overall, Vedic Mathematics is valued by some for its unique approaches and speed-enhancing techniques, making it an interesting alternative perspective on arithmetic and algebra.