NTS GAT General Quantitative Reasoning Secrets: Master Math in 30 Seconds

Why Standard Algebra Fails in Standardized Aptitude Tests

Standardized examinations like the NTS GAT General and NAT are tests of speed and mental agility rather than formal mathematical derivation. Solving an age problem using traditional three-variable algebraic systems often takes 3 minutes. Shortcut estimation and back-solving from answer choices can resolve the same problem in under 30 seconds.

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4 High-Speed Quantitative Strategies

1. Working Backwards (Plugging in the Options)

When asked for an unknown quantity (such as an individual’s current age or the original price of an article), test the middle option choice first (typically Option B or C). If Option B is too small, eliminate both A and B, leaving only C and D to test.

2. The Alligation Formula for Mixtures & Averages

For problems involving mixing two substances of different costs or finding weighted averages of two groups: Use the standard cross-subtraction grid to quickly determine the required ratio without setting up long fraction equations.

3. Work and Time Inverse Relations

When Worker A completes a task in x days and Worker B in y days, their combined completion time is: $$ ext{Time} = rac{x imes y}{x + y}$$ This formula yields the answer directly without calculating individual daily fractions.

4. Percentage Multiplication Shortcuts

To calculate $28%$ of $50$, remember that percentages are reversible: $28%$ of $50$ is identical to $50%$ of $28$, which is simply $14$. This reversible property simplifies numerous mental math calculations.