Solve $\sqrt{197} \times 6.99 + 626.96 = x$

### Concept & Strategy This is an approximation question, common in banking exams. When you see numbers that are extremely close to integers or perfect squares, round them to the nearest whole number or perfect square to simplify calculations. ### Step-by-Step Solution * **Step 1:** Approximate each term to its nearest workable integer. * $\sqrt{197}$ is very close to $\sqrt{196}$, which is a perfect square. So, $\sqrt{197} \approx 14$. * $6.99$ is approximately $7$. * $626.96$ is approximately $627$. * **Step 2:** Substitute the approximated values into the equation. * Equation becomes: $14 \times 7 + 627$ * **Step 3:** Apply BODMAS by multiplying first, then adding. * $14 \times 7 = 98$ * $98 + 627 = 725$ ### Exam Strategy & Shortcut Never attempt to calculate the exact square root of $197$ or multiply exact decimals in approximation sections. Look at the options: they are spaced far apart (e.g., $725$, $825$, $885$). This wide gap is your permission to round aggressively. ### Common Pitfall The most common mistake is failing to recognize this as an approximation problem and wasting precious time trying to calculate the exact decimal value of $\sqrt{197}$, which leads to a massive loss of time and potential calculation errors. ### Final Answer Therefore, the correct answer is 725.