Simplification and Approximation for IBPS PO Exam 2025

Simplification and approximation are important parts of the Quantitative Aptitude section in the IBPS PO 2025 exam. These questions test the candidate’s basic arithmetic skills and ability to estimate or simplify numerical expressions quickly.  Mastering these topics helps in increasing overall speed and accuracy and saves valuable time for more complex questions in the exam also. With consistent practice and the right strategy, candidates can easily score high marks in this section.

Simplification and Approximation for IBPS PO Exam 2025

Simplification questions involve solving for exact values ​​using mathematical operations, while approximation questions test your ability to quickly estimate answers without calculating exact figures. These topics help save valuable time in the exam and are usually high scoring if practiced well. Understanding number operations, the BODMAS rule, and decimal approximation is essential to excel in these questions.

Types of Questions Asked

• Basic Arithmetic (BODMAS Rule)
• Surds and Indices
• Decimals and Fractions
• Square roots and Cube roots
• Percentage-based expressions
• Approximate calculations with large numbers
• Use of ‘~’ or ‘approximately equal to

1. Basic Arithmetic (BODMAS Rule)

• Nature of Questions: These involve evaluating expressions using the correct order of operations Brackets, Orders (powers and roots), Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction.
• Example:
  • Simplify: 15+[6÷(2×3)]−4

Accuracy in applying the rule. Often appears in simplification problems and number series. Focus on inner brackets first. Mistakes usually happen due to ignoring precedence.

2. Surds and Indices

Questions based on laws of exponents and simplification of irrational numbers.

• Example:
  • Simplify: √3×√12 or (2³)²÷2²

Conceptual clarity in simplifying roots and applying exponent rules. Memorize basic laws of exponents and convert roots into powers wherever possible.

3. Decimals and Fractions

Convert fractions to decimals or vice versa, compare values, or perform operations like addition/subtraction.

• Example:
  • Which is greater: $0.75$ or 7/10

Speed in converting and comparing; crucial for approximation and number series. Know common fractions and their decimal equivalents (e.g., 13=0.333\frac{1}{3} = 0.333).

4. Square Roots and Cube Roots

Find square or cube roots of perfect or near-perfect numbers.

• Example:
  • Find the value of √625​ or estimate √50.

Speed and accuracy in recognizing perfect squares/cubes and estimating roots. Memorize squares up to 30 and cubes up to 20. For non-perfect squares, use nearby values.

5. Percentage-based Expressions

• Often seen in simplification and DI. You’re asked to find percentages of values or combine multiple percentage operations.
• Example:
  • Simplify: 25% of 480 + 12.5% of 320

Rapid percentage calculation and application in arithmetic and DI. Use fraction equivalents: 25%=1/4, 12.5%=1/8

6. Approximate Calculations with Large Numbers

Used in approximation-based simplification problems or DI. Round off large numbers and perform basic arithmetic.

• Example:
  • Approximate 6397÷24.9

Ability to estimate answers quickly while maintaining reasonable accuracy. Round 6397 to 6400 and 24.9 to 25 ⇒ 6400/25=256

7. Use of ‘~’ or ‘Approximately Equal To’

Involves interpreting expressions like 50≈7.1 or π≈3.14

• Example:
  • Which of the following is approximately equal to √200? Options may include values like 13.8, 14.1, etc.

Logical reasoning and comfort with estimates instead of exact values. Don’t over-calculate. Use benchmark values to eliminate options quickly.

Common Question Types:

• Simplifying large expressions using BODMAS rules.
• Approximation of complex calculations by rounding numbers.
• Estimation of square roots, cubes, percentages, and other mathematical operations.

Tips for Solving Simplification and Approximation Questions:

• Speed is key: Practice makes perfect. The faster you get at simplifying numbers and approximating values, the better you’ll perform in the exam.
• Avoid overcomplicating: Always look for the simplest method to solve each problem.
• Check the options: Sometimes approximation questions give you options that can help you choose the correct answer faster.