Learning multiplication tables is often seen as a chore — both by children and the parents trying to help them. But with the right strategies, this learning process can become smooth and even enjoyable. Here are 7 concrete, tested methods.
1. Spaced Repetition: The Enemy of Forgetting
Spaced repetition means reviewing information at increasing intervals: 1 day after learning, then 3 days, then 1 week, then 1 month. Backed by dozens of cognitive science studies, this technique is far more effective than last-minute cramming.
In practice: review each table for 5 minutes a day rather than 30 minutes in a single weekend session.
2. Start With the Easiest Tables
Not all tables are equally difficult. A good learning order:
- 1 and 10 tables — trivial, they build confidence
- 2 times table — doubling
- 5 times table — regular pattern (always ends in 0 or 5)
- 11 times table — easy up to 9×11
- 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 tables — the hardest, save these for last
Starting with easy tables builds confidence before tackling harder ones.
3. Games to Lock In Automaticity
Game-based learning activates the brain's reward circuit and promotes long-term retention. Math games let children practice hundreds of calculations without feeling like they're working.
Games like the balloon game or the zombie defense game on this site offer timed practice that builds mental math speed while staying fun and motivating.
4. Mnemonic Stories
For tricky multiplications, inventing a little story works surprisingly well. Examples:
- 7 × 8 = 56: "Seven ate (8) fifty-six sandwiches!"
- 6 × 7 = 42: "Six and seven took a road trip to 42nd Street."
A story creates an emotional anchor that makes recall much easier. Let the child invent their own stories — it works even better.
5. Finger Trick for the 9 Times Table
The 9 times table has a great visual trick. Hold both hands out flat, fingers spread. To calculate 9 × N, fold down the N-th finger from the left. Fingers to the left of the folded finger give the tens; fingers to the right give the units.
Example: 9 × 4 → fold the 4th finger → 3 fingers on the left, 6 on the right → 36. Once seen, never forgotten.
6. Songs and Rhythm
The brain retains rhythmic or sung information better. Setting tables to music (using a familiar tune or dedicated rhymes) can help auditory learners. Many multiplication songs exist on YouTube. The key is listening regularly — during car rides or at bedtime.
7. Test Without a Calculator, Track Mistakes
Once the tables are learned, regular testing is essential. But the test must be done without any support, otherwise you're only recognizing, not truly memorizing.
Write down wrong answers and focus the next day's revision only on those errors. This is the flashcard method (Leitner system) applied to times tables.
What Age to Learn Multiplication Tables?
In most countries, multiplication tables are typically introduced in 2nd or 3rd grade (ages 7–9), with consolidation through 4th and 5th grade. But there's nothing wrong with introducing the 2 times table in 1st grade through play.
The key is not to force it if the child isn't ready — frustration is the enemy of memorization.
Want to practice? Try our multiplication games: Zombie Defense, Balloon Pop, or the timed race game.