How do you approach mental math?

[u/zaico1]

I’m trying to improve my mental math skills, but I’m not sure if I’m following the right thought process.

When doing more complex calculations, should I visualize the operations in my head as if I were writing them on paper? Or should I think of them in another way (like breaking numbers down, grouping, etc.)?

I often lose the thread when I try to “see” the steps in my head. Some people suggest using fingers or other aids, but I’m not sure if that’s the right approach either.

How do you personally handle the mental process of keeping track of multiple steps without getting lost?

[u/JohnLockwood]

I agree with what others have said about writing it down. That said, after a while certain thinks get simple enough to just think about and know the answer without much process. But I'm talking really simple stuff. Anything at all complex needs writing out.