Today, I want to talk about two fascinating methods of solving mathematical problems: Vedic Maths and the Abacus. While both aim to simplify calculations, they differ significantly in their approach and scope.

Abacus

First, let’s discuss the Abacus. This is a physical tool—a frame with rows of wires or grooves along which beads are slid. It’s primarily designed for basic arithmetic operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. While effective, its use is somewhat limited. You can only perform these four fundamental operations, which restricts its application.

Abacus, also known as counting frame, is a calculating device that has been in use since ancient times and is still in use today. Abacus was used in ancient East Asia, Europe, China, and Russia, centuries before the adoption of the written Arabic numeral system. The exact origin of the Abacus is unknown. However, it is believed to have originated in China.

The invention of Abacus happened thousands of years ago to perform arithmetic calculations, and today it is widely used in various brain development programs. An abacus does not perform calculations by itself; instead, it helps users calculate by remembering what they have counted.

An abacus instrument comprises several rows of movable beads, which represent digits. The beads are manipulated to implement an operation involving a second number (e.g., addition), or rarely a square or cubic root. With the help of visualizing abacus bead movements, children can solve calculations in their minds quickly. Research from many established universities proves that abacus learners can efficiently use both the left and right hemispheres of their minds.

Although today we use calculators and computers instead of abacuses, abacuses remain in everyday use in some countries. Merchants, traders, and clerks in some parts of Eastern Europe, Russia, China, and Africa use abacuses, and they are still used to teach arithmetic to children. Some people who cannot use a calculator because of visual impairment still use an abacus.

Vedic Maths

Now, let’s move on to Vedic Maths. Unlike the Abacus, Vedic Maths doesn’t require any physical tools. It’s based on a collection of 16 Sutras, or word formulas, and 13 sub-sutras. These formulas provide techniques and shortcuts for solving not just basic arithmetic, but also advanced topics like algebra and even calculus.

One of the most remarkable features of Vedic Maths is its speed. With practice, one can perform calculations 10 to 15 times faster than traditional methods. Complex problems that would take a significant amount of time can often be solved almost instantly using Vedic techniques.

In summary, the key differences lie in scope and method. The Abacus is a hands-on tool limited to basic operations, while Vedic Maths offers a vast range of applications, all done mentally.