Abacus Training - Requires Simultaneous Use of Both Hands

Mastermind Abacus understands that for best results, Abacus Training requires simultaneous use of hands.

It is well established in neuroscience that movements of the Right Hand are controlled mainly by the Left Hemisphere of the Brain, and movements of the Left Hand by the Right Hemisphere of the Brain.

Using both hands has a distinct advantage as this process engages both the hemispheres of the brain and supports whole brain development in the child using the Abacus tool for learning Abacus.

Benefits of Abacus Learning

The whole-brain development and the Abacus Training process also bring several other benefits. These are listed below:

Improves Listening ability

Improves Visualization

Enhances Memory

Increases the ability to Concentrate

Develops Mental Math Calculation ability

Increases Speed of calculation

Increases Accuracy in the calculation

Develops Logical thinking

Increases Confidence

Improves overall academic performance

Several Abacus promoting organizations train the students to use only one hand while calculating on Abacus. This process may limit the whole-brain development advantage for the students.

We know Abacus was only a calculating tool in the ancient days. But in this modern age, we do not need to use Abacus as a calculating tool; we have several handy electronic gadgets for that. As of now, it is used as a whole Brain development tool in children between the age of 6 to 14.

The process uses numbers as media and Abacus as the Tool. This process involved in Abacus learning promotes whole brain development, and learning to do mental math during Abacus training is an additional benefit.

Mastermind Abacus has been promoting Abacus learning through its 1,000+ Abacus centres across 17 countries since 2005. For the above-discussed benefits of Abacus learning to be achieved in total, we must train the children to use both hands.

Mastermind Abacus has always insisted on using both hands for the best results. It is strictly followed at all of their Abacus Classes worldwide.

Both Hands Abacus Practice: Myths vs Facts

Parents often ask us whether the two-hand method is really necessary, or whether it is too hard for a young child. The table below answers the most common doubts we hear at our centres. For a deeper look at the brain science, read our blog on how abacus connects your child's left and right hemispheres.

Common belief	What we tell parents at Mastermind Abacus
"One hand is enough to move the beads."	One hand can do the sums, but both hands engage both sides of the brain. That is why we teach the two-hand method from Level 1.
"Left-handed children will struggle."	Both hands are trained equally, so a child's natural handedness is not a barrier. Left-handed and right-handed children learn the same way.
"Using both hands will make my child a genius overnight."	It is a skill built through regular practice across 10 levels (3 months each, two 1-hour classes a week). Progress varies from child to child.
"It is too complicated for a 6-year-old."	The programme is designed for ages 6 to 14 and starts with simple bead movements. For 5 to 6 year olds, we offer Lingo Bingo as a preparatory step.
"The two-hand method is only about speed."	Speed is a by-product. The bigger aims are concentration, hand-eye coordination and the ability to visualise the abacus mentally.

Mastermind Abacus has recently developed the Digital version of its Abacus. It is Mastermind's live Online Abacus Learning Platform. It is accessible from anywhere in the world. Any student can book a free demo and register and learn Abacus from the comfort of their home with just a laptop and internet.

The Mastermind Online Abacus program follows the recommended process for achieving best results of learning Abacus. This latest program is loaded with several indigenously developed Abacus Math-Based Video games. These are used not only for teaching Abacus Math but also for giving the students plenty of practice. The students solve the questions on the Abacus Tool or by manipulating the beads mentally on a visualized Abacus Instrument and then input the answer into the system, using the keyboard. In the process they learn Abacus Mental Math.

The Online Abacus program by Mastermind Abacus is a great advantage for all aspiring to start their own Abacus Centers because it has overcome the geographical limitations of enrolling students. It can reduce the cost of overheads & infrastructure involved. Setup and operating costs depend on the model; results depend on enrolments, expenses and execution. The availability of the Online Abacus Training and learning teaching platform for teachers has opened up a new avenue of adding to revenue without moving out of their home. They require a laptop or PC with a Broadband internet connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Mastermind Abacus teach children to use both hands on the abacus?

Because each hand is controlled mainly by the opposite side of the brain, moving beads with both hands engages both hemispheres at once. This supports coordination, focus and visualisation alongside calculation. Mastermind Abacus has followed the two-hand method at all its centres and online classes since 2005.

Is the two-hand abacus method difficult for a left-handed child?

No. In the two-hand method both hands are trained equally from the first level, so a left-handed child is not at any disadvantage. Our trainers guide every child through the same bead movements, and most children settle into the technique comfortably within the first few weeks of practice.

At what age can my child start learning the two-hand abacus technique?

The Mastermind Abacus programme is designed for children aged 6 to 14, in both online and offline classes. At this age children have the finger control needed for the two-hand method. For children aged 5 to 6, we offer Lingo Bingo as a fun, preparatory programme before they begin abacus.

Can the two-hand method be learnt properly in live online abacus classes?

Yes. In Mastermind's live online classes the trainer watches each child's hand movements on camera and corrects finger and bead technique in real time, just as in a physical centre. Children practise on a physical abacus at home and then on the visual abacus and math games in the student app.

Does using both hands on the abacus really develop both sides of the brain?

Using both hands engages both hemispheres, because each hand is controlled mainly by the opposite side of the brain. Abacus is an educational activity, not a therapy, and results vary by child. To understand the tool itself before enrolling, read our page on what an abacus is and how it works.

Do get in touch if you are looking for more information.

Author – Mr. Naveen Chowdhari

Naveen Chowdhari is the Founder & Director of Mastermind Abacus, a leading name in children’s mental math and brain development training. By blending traditional abacus methods with modern teaching techniques, he has created an innovative system that enhances children’s concentration, memory, visualization, speed, and overall cognitive skills. Under his leadership, Mastermind Abacus now provides worldwide online abacus classes and has built a strong global franchise network, making quality brain-development education accessible across the world.

Last Updated: 24 September 2026