Multiplying a number by 15

General rule:

Let us assume the number to be ABC, then thumb rule says,

Step 1: Keep on adding the half of left most digit and write the number on the right of the digit till all numbers are covered.

Note: Ignore fractional values.

For instance, A + (A/2) = X (say)

This forms the first digits of the answer.

Step 2: Next digit (B): B + (B/2) = Y

Step 2.a: If the number to left of B is odd, then 5 to the resultant (Y)

This forms the next digits of our answer.


Similarly, by taking next digit (C), we have

(C) + (C/2) = Z

Follow the step 2.a as the case may be.

This forms the last part of our answer.

Note: If the resultant is two digit number from step 2 onwards, add the tens digit of resultant to the immediate left number.

Step 3: If the unit digit is

Even: then final answer ends with 0

Odd: then final answer ends with 5

For better understanding, let us take an example:

Example 1: 112 × 15

1 + (1/2) = 1

1 + (1/2) = 1 + 5 = 6 ( left digit is 1, so added 5)

2 + (2/2) = 3 + 5 = 8 ( left digit is 1, so added 5).

Following step 3, we have the unit digit of given number as 2. The final answer will end with 0.

Therefore, the required final answer is 1680.

Example 2: 211 × 15

2 + (2/2) = 3

1 + (1/2) = 1

1 + (1/2) = 1 + 5 = 6

Therefore, the required final answer is 3165

Lastly, let me tell you: it is nothing but simple algebra.

ABC × 15 = (ABC{0/5}) + (ABC/2)

Image credit: http://www.pixabay.com

About Praveenkumar K

Founder, Editor: Prep Your Math| Fond of Mathematics | loves to work wherever there is Mathematics & its application |Founder of @prepyourmath | Aspiring to be civil servant | Believes in hard-work | Goal-oriented, Responsible Citizen | >> Acquiring the knowledge as much as I can << I’ll be writing a book on “ Preparation for Competitive exams” which involves Mathematics. Currently I’m working on it. Once it is done, I’ll publish book and you can get your copy :) I feel good to be part of Math revolution, the Mathematics should be taught to kids who like to explore the math in fun & interesting way. Global Math Project is started by famous Mathematician - James Tanton, the famous author of many math books. His exploding dots videos are must watch for math enthusiasts.My academic interests are predominantly Mathematics and Physics. History, Art are other interests. Read about Indian Society, Tribal India, Indian Anthropology. I want to learn and share with you guys!
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