Can abacus be used for multiplication?

We will see below how we use abacus for multiplication. For example we take 48 x 3. The total number of digits are 3, hence we start our answers from the third rod. First we multiply 4 x 3 and put the value from 3rd rod or 100’s place we call it. Then we multiply 8 and 3 and add in the value i.e 120 we have put in the abacus already. Hence the answer is 144. Multiplication tricks are nothing but the number of digits in multiplicand and number of digits in the multiplier are taken’ together for rod selection which enables the children to visualize and arrive at the answers.

A child who is good with table 1-9 can visualize the abacus can do the multiplication of 3 digits x 3 digits mentally in 3-4 years of learning without using a pencil or paper. The progress of children who has learnt and use the abacus method are outstanding compared to their peers at any stage.

The confidence level, speed and accuracy is beyond limit not only in mental calculations but also in other subjects/ activities they are learning. Experience shows that progress of children who have learnt abacus is commendable in any field they venture.