Approximation- How to Solve for IBPS RRB PO/ Clerk 2025

Approximation is a scoring and time-saving topic in the Quantitative Aptitude section of the IBPS RRB PO and Clerk 2025 exam. In these questions, candidates are expected to estimate the result of a given numerical expression by rounding off the numbers and calculating an approximate value. These types of questions test your number sense, calculation skills, and your ability to make quick and smart estimates without going into exact details. With regular practice and the right approach, approximation questions can help you improve your overall score in less time.

Approximation- How to Solve for IBPS RRB PO/ Clerk 2025

In simple terms, approximation means replacing actual numbers with their nearby simple values to make calculations faster. For example, instead of multiplying 19.9 with 5.1, you can take them as 20 and 5. This avoids lengthy calculations and gives an answer that is close enough to the correct one. Since the IBPS RRB exams are time-bound, solving questions using approximation helps save precious minutes that can be used for solving tougher questions.

The method to solve approximation questions is very simple and logical. Here’s how you can approach them:

Step 1: Round the Numbers
Identify the numbers that are slightly difficult to calculate, such as decimals or long digits. Round them off to the nearest simple value. For instance, replace 19.9 with 20, 4.8 with 5, 99.5 with 100, and so on.

Step 2: Use Simple Calculations
Once you round off all the numbers, perform the operations as required – addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, or square root. Use quick calculation tricks if needed.

Step 3: Choose the Closest Option
After solving the approximated expression, compare your result with the options provided in the question. Pick the one that is nearest to your answer.

Important Tips for Solving Approximation Questions

To solve approximation questions faster and with more accuracy, keep these tips in mind:

Round Off Smartly:
Do not round numbers randomly. Always round them in a way that keeps your answer close to the real one. For example, 2.49 can be taken as 2, but 2.51 should be taken as 3.

Know Squares and Square Roots:
Learn the squares and square roots of numbers from 1 to 30. These are very common in questions. For instance, √64 = 8, √81 = 9, etc. This saves time in calculations.

Avoid Exact Calculation:
Do not waste time solving the actual values when you can easily round off. The goal here is to get a near-correct value, not an exact one.

Practice Mental Math:
Regular practice of mental math techniques like fast multiplication, division, and estimation improves your performance in approximation questions.

Approximation Questions for IBPS RRB PO and Clerk 2025

Below are some questions for you to practice and strengthen your understanding of approximation. Practice them regularly to improve your speed and accuracy in the Quantitative Aptitude section of the IBPS RRB PO and Clerk 2025 exam.

Q1. 0.06 × 0.84 = ? × 1.2 × 0.015
(a) 8.2
(b) 6.4
(c) 2.6
(d) 3.8
(e) 2.8

Q2. 8.41 + 6.25 + 0.79 = ? – 0.55
(a) 17
(b) 14.9
(c) 13.9
(d) 16
(e) 14.7

Q3. 12.5 × 80 + 37.5 × 16 – 6.25 × 112 = ?
(a) 1000
(b) 900
(c) 2300
(d) 600
(e) 1300

Q4. 13.141 + 31.417 – 27.118 =?
(a) 16.441
(b) 17.543
(c) 17.490
(d) 17.440
(e) 17.590

Q5. 4349.1 + 2256.4 – 1151.2 – 1244.3 = x
(a) 4210
(b) 4321
(c) 4530
(d) 4230
(e) 4250