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An abacus is a calculation tool that uses sliding counters along rods to perform mathematical functions. In addition to calculating the basic functions of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, an abacus can calculate roots up to the cubic degree. Each row on the abacus represents a different place value (ones, tens, hundreds, etc.). The beads on each rod represent numerical values. Users place beads in specific positions to represent numbers. Abacus is a wonderful tool for giving concrete physical quantity to abstract numbers Abacus the world First Calculator The Abacus went through many transitions over the Centuries, It started as a tray of sand in which figures were drawn with a stylus. However, the Abacus as we know today is sleek and sophisticated in design. A compact rectangular frame that can easily fit in your school bag. It has 17 rods with beads that can be moved up and down. The use of Abacus Today The Abacus went through many transitions over the Centuries, It started with a tray of sand that became a calculating device as we see today. It is also called Soroban in Japanese, Suan- Pan in Chinese . Abacus is still widely used in Asian schools for teaching arithmetic. Abacus today is a game changer for students, especially the visually impaired, as they can feel the device and eventually visualize the rods and beads in their minds.  Abacus education eradicates the dependency on traditional methods of doing mathematics using pen and paper. Abacus learning significantly improves the skills of : Concentration Observation Memorization Imagination Creativity How Long Does It Take to Learn to Use an Abacus? You can learn basic calculations, such as addition, and subtraction within six months. For more complex operations, like Higher Divisions, multiplications, powers, and cube roots, it may take up to three years to learn to perform the calculations proficiently. Is Abacus useful for the Modern world? Although largely replaced by electronic devices, an abacus is still used for arithmetic computations. They are widely used as teaching tools in classrooms all over the world. Blind children are often taught to use the abacus to learn math and perform calculations as a substitute for paper and pencil. Is an Abacus Faster than a Calculator? Experienced abacists can perform some calculations faster than an electronic calculator, however, it takes a great deal of practice and expertise to reach that level.  Using the Abacus Visually to do mental calculations is a faster way of computing at par and sometimes faster than a calculator. How does an Abacus work? Abacus learning uses Visual & Spatial memory as its key technique that assists in Mental Arithmetic. When using an abacus, the user must maintain track of the placement of the beads, which supports the growth and reinforcement of visual and spatial memory. By using an Abacus, the user can ‘see’ numbers & calculations in their mind and perform the most complex calculations mentally by moving the beads in their head. Effects of Abacus use on a Child’s Brain development. Develops Fine Motor Skills – Using the abacus involves fine motor skills and muscle memory. As users move beads up and down, they develop muscle memory for common calculations. Over time, leading to quicker and more accurate calculations. Internalization –  An abacus encourages the development of mental calculation strategies, by internalizing calculation techniques and strategies, individuals can perform arithmetic calculations quickly and accurately. Concentration & Focus – Using the abacus demands high levels of concentration and focus. This increased attention helps the child in a variety of fields- both academic and non-academic.  Visualization- One of the key skills Abacus develops is visualization. It unlocks the visual cortex using imaging techniques of the abacus and makes it a lifetime skill.  Listening & Memory– Since a lot of practice is done by listening to numbers being called out. It improves the Listening skills and visual memory of the child, which in turn helps retain information faster.