Quick Calculations by Shi Fengshou in English?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the search for an English translation of "Quick Calculations" by Shi Fengshou, a book purportedly focused on rapid calculation techniques. Participants explore the relevance and application of these methods, particularly in the context of mental arithmetic and competitive environments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire for an English manual of Shi Fengshou's "Rapid Calculations," noting the absence of translations and seeking recommendations for similar resources.
  • Another participant suggests that Shi Fengshou's methods may relate to abacus techniques and mentions competitions where children perform arithmetic operations using abaci.
  • Some participants question the practical value of rapid calculations in the age of calculators, with one suggesting that the appeal lies in bragging rights and personal satisfaction.
  • A participant argues that proficiency in mental calculations could provide competitive advantages in fields like carpentry, where quick calculations might influence job opportunities.
  • Conversely, another participant dismisses the utility of rapid calculations in carpentry, expressing a preference for traditional methods over mental arithmetic or abacus techniques.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion reflects a mix of opinions regarding the value and practicality of rapid calculation techniques. While some participants see merit in the skills for personal or professional reasons, others question their relevance in modern contexts, indicating that no consensus exists on the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying assumptions about the applicability of rapid calculation methods, with some referencing specific contexts like competitions and carpentry. The discussion does not resolve the practical implications of these methods.

Carpenter T
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"Quick Calculations" by Shi Fengshou in English?

I'm looking for an English manual to "Shi Fengshou Rapid Calculations." Apparently the guy wrote a book in Chinese sometime between 1970 and 1980 called "Quick Calculations." However, I haven't been able to find an English translation of it. I would settle for any book about his "rapid calculation" formulas, but I haven't been able to find any in English. At his website they describe the basics of his methods:

shifengshou.com

Can anyone recommend a book with even the same ideas? I think this guy is supposed to be the original "human calculator," and if I'm going to invest time in learning a system, I want to learn the best.
 
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I believe it has something to do with an abacus, or something similar. I think a few countries have a competition for kids where they do large arithmetic operations with abaci. There are some people that were so proficient at it they can picture an abacus in their mind and do large calculations that way.

But I mean what's the point? We have calculators
 
Last edited:
Feldoh said:
But I mean what's the point?

Bragging rights, like most things in life.
 
Werg22 said:
Bragging rights, like most things in life.

Or: Just plain fun:)

Isn't this suppose to be a math forum? Am I the only one here who would find satisfaction in knowing I could do this stuff in my head? I'm only 29, but you guys are already making me feel old.

Besides, with all the competition in carpentry, for a carpenter this kind of thing could make the difference between a pay raise or even a job. Every edge helps.
 
Well If i ever get stranded on an island with no working paper, I will gladly drown. If I have working paper, Ill do everything by hand if I have to, stuff your abacus, schmabacus. I don't see how quick calculations will help in Carpentry by the way...
 

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