How to Improve Your Speed in IPMAT Quantitative Aptitude Section?

The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section of the IPMAT exam can be a real challenge for many aspirants, particularly because of the time constraints. With questions that require logical thinking, quick calculations, and problem-solving skills, speed is crucial to scoring well. However, speed doesn’t come overnight—it requires strategic preparation and regular practice. Career Launcher Dharampeth, Nagpur, one of the Best coaching institutes for IPMAT, has helped numerous students achieve top scores by teaching them how to improve speed in the quantitative section. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies to boost your speed in the Quantitative Aptitude section, ensuring that you can solve problems efficiently without compromising accuracy.

Quick Tips to Improve Speed in QA

Improving your speed in QA is a gradual process, but with dedication and the right strategies, you'll find yourself solving problems faster and more efficiently, leading to higher scores in the IPMAT exam.

1. Master the Basics

Speed in Quantitative Aptitude begins with a solid understanding of the basics. Before diving into time-saving strategies, ensure that you are comfortable with foundational mathematical concepts like:

·         Algebra (Equations, Progressions, etc.)

·         Arithmetic (Percentages, Averages, Time-Speed-Distance, etc.)

·         Geometry (Triangles, Circles, and Mensuration)

·         Number System (Divisibility rules, Remainders, etc.)

Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, you’ll be able to recognize patterns and shortcuts more easily, which ultimately speeds up your problem-solving process.

2. Learn and Apply Shortcuts

One of the best ways to improve speed is by using mathematical shortcuts. These shortcuts allow you to solve problems much faster than the traditional method. For example:

·         Algebra: Learn how to solve quadratic equations using factoring methods or the difference of squares.

·         Percentage-based Questions: Use the percentage change formula and approximation techniques to avoid lengthy calculations.

·         Speed, Time, and Distance: Familiarize yourself with key formulas and relationships to quickly tackle these types of questions.

The more shortcuts you have in your arsenal, the faster you’ll be able to solve complex problems, leaving you with more time for difficult questions.

3. Practice Mental Math

Mathematics in the IPMAT is often about quick mental calculations, especially when you're under time pressure. Mental math helps you bypass the need for paper and pen, making the process much faster. Here are a few ways to improve your mental math:

·         Practice multiplication tables and squares/cubes of numbers.

·         Estimate answers: Round numbers to approximate values before performing actual calculations.

·         Work on fractions: Simplify fractions mentally to speed up calculations in questions related to ratios, percentages, and averages.

The more you practice, the faster you will be able to perform these calculations mentally without relying on a calculator.

4. Solve Problems in Batches

Rather than solving each question one at a time, try solving questions in batches. Group similar types of questions together and tackle them sequentially. For example:

·         Solve all Percentage-related questions at once.

·         Solve all Time and Work questions together.

By doing this, you don’t waste time figuring out the approach for each new question. You can stay in the "zone" of solving similar problems and reduce cognitive load, which speeds up the process.

5. Take Mock Tests and Analyze Them

Mock tests are essential when preparing for IPMAT, as they simulate the real exam conditions. Take as many mock tests as possible, but more importantly, analyze your performance after each test:

·         Identify time-consuming problems: Understand which types of questions take up most of your time and come up with strategies to solve them faster.

·         Track accuracy: Analyze not just how quickly you solved the question, but also whether you got it right. Speed is important, but accuracy matters even more.

By regularly practicing and analyzing mock tests, you will get better at managing time and solving problems more quickly.

6. Improve Your Speed with Timed Practice

A crucial component of improving speed is practicing with a time limit. Without a time constraint, you may not develop the reflexes necessary to handle the real exam scenario. Therefore, always solve practice questions and mock tests with strict time limits.

·         Start slow: In the beginning, you might take longer to solve questions, but gradually try to reduce the time you spend on each question.

·         Simulate exam conditions: Try solving full-length papers under exam-like conditions (limited time, no interruptions) to get used to the pressure.

Timed practice is essential to improve both your speed and stamina for the Quantitative Aptitude section.

7. Work on Your Time Management Skills

In the IPMAT, each section has a specific time limit, and managing your time efficiently is key to finishing all the questions in the QA section. Here are some time management tips:

·         Divide the total time: Allocate a certain amount of time to each question type and stick to it.

·         Skip and return: If a question feels too time-consuming, skip it and come back later if time permits.

·         Prioritize easy questions: Start with questions that you find easier and quicker to solve, and leave the challenging ones for later.

Learning to manage your time wisely will help you avoid spending too much time on one question and ensure that you can complete the entire section.

8. Review Your Mistakes

After every practice session or mock test, take time to review your mistakes. Understanding where you went wrong and why will help you avoid making the same errors in the future. Here’s what to focus on during your review:

·         Did you misinterpret the question?

·         Did you make a calculation error due to rushing?

·         Was there a quicker method you could have used?

By understanding your mistakes and correcting them, you’ll prevent them from hindering your speed in future attempts.

Summary:

Improving your speed in the Quantitative Aptitude section of the IPMAT requires a mix of conceptual understanding, quick thinking, and consistent practice. By mastering the basics, learning shortcuts, practicing mental math, and taking mock tests, you will steadily increase your speed and accuracy. Career Launcher Dharampeth, Nagpur, with its expert guidance and structured approach, helps students build these skills effectively, making them ready to face the IPMAT with confidence. Remember, consistent practice and smart strategies are the keys to mastering speed in the Quantitative Aptitude section.