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What if you could solve math problems super fast, like a math superhero?

Multiplication tables are like magic tools for math. They help you do so many things, like figuring out how many toys fit in a box, or even playing games that use numbers.

A South Park character saying, 'Now let's review our multiplication tables.'

You can use multiplication tables to help you with multiplication drills (quick practice exercises). Math will get easier and more fun!

What are Multiplication Tables?

Multiplication tables are simple math facts that show how numbers multiply. For example:

  • 2 × 3 = 6

  • 4 × 5 = 20

You can learn multiplication tables (sometimes called times tables) "so that they come to mind quickly and easily."

This video shows how multiplication tables work:

Did you know?

"The ancient Babylonians were probably the first culture to create multiplication tables, more than 4,000 years ago."

Best Order to Learn Times Tables

Learning in the right order makes things easier. Start with the simplest ones first when you do multiplication drills:

  • 10 times table: It’s easy! Just add a zero to the number. For example, 3 × 10 = 30.

  • 2 times table: It’s like doubling numbers. For example, 2 × 4 = 8.

  • 5 times table: Ends in a 5 or 0 every time. For example, 5 × 6 = 30.

  • 4 times table: It’s just doubling the 2 times table!

  • 9 times table: Use tricks like subtracting from the 10 times table. (E.g., 6×9=60−6=54).

  • 3, 6, and 7 times tables: These are trickier but don’t worry — practice makes perfect!

  • 8, 11, and 12 times tables: Finish with these.

A Toy Story character saying, 'One day, everyone will know their multiplication tables.'

4 Multiplication Drills

  1. Say it out loud: Start by saying the tables in order. For example: "1×2=2, 2×2=4, 3×2=6…"

  2. Write it down: Write the times tables on paper. This helps you remember better.

  3. Practice in order: Test yourself in order, like: 2 × 1, 2 × 2, 2 × 3...

  4. Mix it up: Try random questions like: What’s 4 × 2?

Animated objects of two 4s turning to one 8.

Tips for Multiplication Drills

  • Learn one table at a time: Focus on one table before moving to the next.

  • Flip the facts: Remember, 3 × 4 is the same as 4 × 3!

  • Spot the squares: Notice patterns like 3 × 3 = 9 or 7 × 7 = 49.

  • Make it personal: Connect answers to real-life things, like: “5 × 8 = 40, that’s the number of jellybeans in a pack!”

  • Play games: Use flashcards, apps, or quizzes to make practice fun.

  • Use doubles: The 2, 4, and 8 times tables are all related! For example: 2 × 8 = 16, 4 × 4 = 16, 8 × 2 = 16

  • Tricks for nines: The digits in the answers for the 9 times table add up to 9. Example: 9 × 4 = 36 → 3 + 6 = 9

  • Spend extra time on tricky tables: Like 6 and 7, they’re harder but worth it!

  • Make it a challenge: See how fast you can answer — try to beat your own record!

  • The toughest fact? 7 × 8 = 56 is tricky, but now you’ll always remember it!

An nimated illustration using a box and circles to show that 3 multiplied by 5 is equal to 15.

Scenario: School Cookies

It’s snack time at school, and your teacher has a fun challenge for the class!

A table of cookies.Photo by No Revisions on Unsplash

There are 5 tables in the classroom, and each table gets 6 cookies to share. The teacher asks: "How many cookies do we need to make sure each table gets the right amount?"

How many cookies are needed in total?

A. 11

B. 25

C. 30

D. 50

Quiz

How many cookies are needed in total?

Take Action

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Start building your math skills through multiplication drills!

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