Shortcuts for Multiplication Tables

Almost half the work is done for you if you can remember that 2 × 12 = 24 is exactly the same as 12 × 2 = 24. So, apart from the square numbers (like 7 × 7 = 49), every multiplication fact has a partner which reverses the numbers being multiplied but gives the same answer. You can see the symmetry of the tables on this page.

Some of the tables have some handy and quick ways of working them out. For example:

5 × tables

Add a zero to the number you are multiplying by 5 and half the result. For 6 × 5, add a zero to 6 to make 60 and find half of this, 30.

So 6 × 5 = 30

6 × tables

This is very similar to the rule for the 5 × tables. Add a zero, half the result and then add the number you started with.

It sounds complicated. Let's try an example. 8 × 6. Add a zero to 8 to give 80. Half the result gives 40. Add the original number, 8, to give 48.

So 8 × 6 = 48

Also worth remembering with the 6 × table is that whenever 6 is being multiplied by an even number the answer ends with that number. So 4 × 6 = 24, 6 × 6 = 36 and so on.

8 × tables

Rather than counting on in 8's, why not add 10 and then subtract 2. These two operatrions are easier to do.

If you have reached 2 × 8 is 16, add 10 to 16 to give 26, and then subtract 2 to give 24.

So 3 × 8 = 24

9 × tables

Almost identical to the rule for the 8 × tables, only this time add 10 and then subtract 1.

Remember also that you can work out the 9 × tables using your hands. Click here to see how this works.

10 × tables

Just add a zero! 2 × 10 = 20

11 × tables

For the lower numbers up to 9, just repeat the digit. So 5 × 11 = 55.

There is also an impressive way of working out 11 × any two-digit number!

Take 37 × 11. Adding the two digits and adding a zero gives 3 + 7 = 10. Add a zero gives 100.

Separating the two digits gives 307.

Adding the two numbers gives 100 + 307 = 407. So 37 × 11 = 407.

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