Quantitative aptitude forms one of the most important elements of recruitment tests in banks. It measures the ability of the applicant to solve math-related problems using logic and in less time. For good performance, many test-takers search for quick calculation tricks and formulas that can help them solve the question in less time. While such shortcuts prove highly valuable in answering the questions, it may become risky to apply them without understanding the basic concepts behind them.
On the contrary, focusing only on topics without developing skills in solving questions can also affect performance adversely and lead to fewer questions being attempted in the exam. The successful candidates understand the importance of maintaining a balance between the two. This helps them finish the work in less time with high accuracy.
This article discusses shortcuts vs. concepts: finding the right balance in quant.
Although using shortcuts can save a lot of time during exams, a good Bank Coaching program places importance on understanding the fundamental concepts before resorting to the use of shortcuts in solving quantitative questions.
Shortcuts vs. concepts: finding the right balance in quant
Here are the effective strategies given below to find the right balance in quant:
Why concepts form the foundation of quant preparation
Every topic in mathematics is built on a concept. Any problem is based on some basic premise; be it percentage, profit & loss, time and work, ratio and proportion or DI.
A candidate with a strong grasp of concepts will have the ability to understand the rationale behind the problem and find the right way out. Moreover, concepts can help solve problems which are difficult or unusual and do not fit into any shortcut method. Even the best methods of solving become tough without this base.
Moreover, the pattern of banking exams continues to change. Rather than applying memorized shortcut methods, the new ways of testing candidates’ understanding are used through innovative questions. This adaptability to change comes from concepts.
The importance of shortcuts in competitive exams
Examinations for banks are a race against time, although the concepts are important. In most cases, candidates are allowed less than a minute to answer a single question. There are many ways that will boost productivity when using shortcuts.
The shortcuts reduce complex situations to simple forms and reduce the time taken for complex calculations. The extra seconds saved for each question will help you make more attempts and get better scores in the whole duration of the exam. By minimizing repetitive calculations, there is reduced strain on the brain.
The risks of depending only on shortcuts
Due to their ability to produce faster answers, many candidates opt for shortcuts. However, relying solely on tricks will cause a variety of problems.
First, it could happen that tricks will only be applicable to certain types of questions. Those candidates who have poor conceptual understanding of the subject matter will find it challenging to determine the correct answer if the question appears in a different form.
Second, mistakes could occur due to the memorization of many shortcuts. Candidates may waste their time recalling a certain trick rather than using logic and solving the problem logically.
Third, improper use of shortcuts could make candidates commit silly mistakes. Candidates may fail to understand the reasoning behind a process and give a wrong answer to a question.
The risks of ignoring shortcuts
The absence of shortcuts altogether may negatively impact performance just like their excessive use may do.
People who depend solely on traditional methods often spend more time doing the computations than is actually required. Even though they may get the correct answers, they may not get through all the required questions within the time provided to them.
A mere increase in speed could make a large difference in the rankings in highly competitive exams. Therefore, when comprehension skills have been mastered, learning some tricks becomes essential.
How to build concepts effectively
Understanding the fundamentals must always be the foremost objective for the first round of quantitative preparation. Fundamentals of calculations, inter-relations among variables, and methods of solving questions must be taught to aspirants.
Candidates must understand the derivation of formulas and their applications instead of merely mugging up formulas. Comprehension of the formulas and confidence among candidates can be built through the solution of easy and medium-level questions.
As powerful fundamentals require constant revision, regular revision becomes equally important. Candidates develop a better understanding of the concepts through revision.
When to introduce shortcuts
It is only at the stage where an individual becomes somewhat knowledgeable about a subject that one may think of taking shortcuts. Candidates are now allowed to consider faster approaches when they are capable of answering questions through the use of traditional methods.
In this case, shortcuts become not an alternative to understanding but rather ways to improve efficiency. To determine which approach is more effective in particular situations, candidates can test both traditional and shortcut approaches.
Such transition provides an assurance of efficiency being grounded in knowledge.
Using mock tests to find the right balance
It becomes much easier for individuals to determine how good the balance between the two has been when they go through mock tests. They can discover areas in which they are spending more time and whether application of shortcuts can help them improve their efficiency during the tests.
Through the analysis of the mock tests, it can be known whether shortcuts have been causing unnecessary mistakes. The situation needs to be adjusted if there is an improvement in speed but a reduction in accuracy.
Both speed and accuracy should be achieved together.
Join the best SSC Coaching program for professional assistance and effective ways to ace your exams.
Conclusion
It is important to note that the debate on concepts and shortcuts is not about choosing between the two. Both play an important role in the preparation for quantitative aptitude. Though shortcuts enhance speed during the test, concepts are fundamental for understanding and adaptability.
The most successful banking candidates realize that it is possible to apply shortcuts effectively when there is an adequate level of concept mastery. Candidates are able to find the perfect combination of speed and accuracy through understanding of the underlying concepts first before using effective strategies. Such an approach improves test performance as well as boosts confidence in dealing with complex quantitative questions.
