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Learn Multiplication

From equal groups to times tables to multi-digit problems.

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Multiplication is a fast way to add equal groups: 4 bags with 6 apples each is 4 times 6, or 24 apples. It starts with arrays and skip counting, grows into the times tables, and then into methods for multiplying larger numbers, like the area model and the standard written algorithm. Knowing the facts quickly matters, because almost every later topic, from fractions to long division to algebra, relies on them. Learning them through patterns and strategies, rather than pure memorizing, makes them stick. Learnr builds a multiplication course for your level, for a child or an adult, and teaches it in short interactive lessons.

How to learn Multiplication, step by step

Start with arrays and equal groups. Lay out 3 rows of 5 coins and count them, then turn the array sideways to show 5 rows of 3. This shows that 3 times 5 equals 5 times 3, which halves the facts to memorize.
Learn the easy facts first. Begin with the 2s, 5s and 10s through skip counting, since they connect to doubling, nickels and dimes. Early success builds confidence before the harder tables.
Use strategies for the middle facts. Get 4s by doubling twice and 6s by adding one more group to the 5s. For 9s, the tens digit is one less than the multiplier and the digits add to 9: 9 times 7 is 63.
Target the 7s and 8s directly. Facts like 7 times 8 and 6 times 7 cause the most trouble. Anchor them to known facts, such as 7 times 8 being 7 times 4 doubled, 28 plus 28, which is 56.
Break bigger numbers into parts. For 23 times 14, use an area model: 20 times 14 is 280 and 3 times 14 is 42, for 322. Once this makes sense, the standard algorithm is just a compact way to write it.
Practice a few minutes every day. Short daily recall practice beats long weekly drills for memorizing facts. Learnr's quick lessons and streaks are a good fit for that, and children enjoy watching their streak grow.

What you'll learn

Explain multiplication as equal groups, arrays and skip counting
Recall times tables up to 12 times 12 quickly
Use strategies like doubling, the nines trick and breaking numbers apart
Multiply multi-digit numbers with the area model and standard algorithm
Solve word problems that call for multiplication

What's inside your Multiplication course

A sample path Learnr builds for Multiplication. Your real course adapts to your goal and level.

1. Equal groups, arrays and skip counting
2. Facts for 2, 5 and 10
3. Facts for 3, 4, 6 and 9 with strategies
4. The hardest facts: 7s and 8s
5. Multi-digit multiplication
6. Word problems and estimation

How long does it take to learn Multiplication?

Most children learn the meaning of multiplication and the facts through 10 times 10 over a school year or two, with steady 10 to 15 minute daily practice. Multi-digit methods take a few more months. Adults refreshing facts usually need 2 to 4 weeks.

What you need before you start

Counting, addition and skip counting by 2s, 5s and 10s. For multi-digit multiplication, an understanding of place value (ones, tens, hundreds) is also needed.

Common mistakes to avoid

Memorizing facts with no meaning behind them, so a forgotten fact cannot be rebuilt. Teach strategies like doubling so a child can work it out.
Forgetting the placeholder zero in the second row of a two-digit multiplication, which makes 23 times 14 come out far too small.
Drilling all twelve tables at once. Go table by table, and use the commutative property so each new table needs fewer new facts.

How Learnr builds your course

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Multiplication questions, answered

What is the fastest way to learn the times tables?

Learn them in a smart order (2s, 5s, 10s, then 4s, 9s, 3s, 6s, then 7s and 8s), use strategies to rebuild facts, and practice a few minutes daily with quick recall questions.

How can I help my child with multiplication?

Use real objects in groups, look for patterns together, play quick fact games in the car or at dinner, and focus extra practice on the facts your child is slowest on.