Vedic Maths: Vilokanam Sutra (Addition)

We have two sutras/formulae for addition in Vedic Maths. These are - Dhashamshaha (Dropping Tens/Line Addition) and Vilokanam (Spark Addition / Left-Right Addition). Let’s discuss Vilokanam (Spark Addition/Left-Right Addition).

The word “Vilokanam” means observation. It is also called spark addition because within a spark of time we can find the sum. This method helps to find the sum of numbers by just looking at them. One can practise this method to speed up their calculation speed. Children from 7-10 years of age can easily learn this method/sutra. 

There are two concepts to keep in mind - End Numbers, and Carry & Non-Carry Numbers. To use this sutra, one must start the calculations from the left and move towards the right. If there is a carry number on the right, add 1 to the left. If there is a non-carry number on the right, then copy it as it is. Finally, repeat the above steps until you reach the rightmost number. Moving ahead, if you wish to calculate three digit and two digit numbers, you have to consider the first two digits, starting from the left of the three digit number and adding it to the leftmost digit of the two digit number. Check whether the digits succeeding are carry or non carry numbers. If the numbers are carry numbers, add 1 to the sum and if the numbers are non- carry just copy the sum as it is. For one’s place, write the end number of the rightmost digits. Lastly, if you want to calculate three digit numbers, you have to add the leftmost digits and check whether the digits succeeding are carry or non carry numbers. If the numbers are carry numbers, add 1 to the sum and if the numbers are non carry, just copy the sum as it is. For remaining digits, write their end numbers keeping in mind the succeeding carry and non carry numbers. This is one of the easiest ways to start one's Vedic Math journey.