Simplification
Simplification & BODMAS
Simplification is the process of reducing a complex arithmetic expression to its simplest value by applying BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction) in strict order. Mastery of fraction, decimal, and percentage conversions makes this process fast and error-free.
Key Idea
BODMAS is non-negotiable. In banking exams, approximate aggressively — the answer choices are spaced wide enough that rounding to nearest 5 still uniquely identifies the correct answer.
Core Formulas
BODMAS Order
B → O → D → M → A → S (Brackets, Orders, Divide, Multiply, Add, Subtract)
When evaluating any mixed arithmetic expression
LCM for fractions
a/b ± c/d = (ad ± bc)/(bd); simplify by GCD
When adding or subtracting fractions
Approximation tolerance
Round to nearest 5; if answer options differ by >5%, approximation is sufficient
For banking exam simplification questions
Perfect square pattern
n² − (n−1)² = 2n − 1 (difference of consecutive squares is always odd)
To quickly identify nearby perfect squares
Fraction-percent conversion
p% = p/100; reduce fraction; memorise common ones: 20%=1/5, 25%=1/4, 12.5%=1/8
To convert between % and fraction quickly
Relevant Exams
5+ questions in IBPS PO and SBI PO Prelims — one of the highest-weightage topics in banking exams. Tests BODMAS, approximation, and fraction/decimal operations.