How to Memorize Multiplication Tables Fast

Let's be honest: memorizing multiplication tables feels like an impossible mountain when you're 8 years old. The good news? It doesn't have to be painful. These methods have helped thousands of kids (and their exhausted parents) get through it faster.

1. Skip Counting First 🎵

Before memorizing individual facts, get comfortable counting in multiples. Sing it, chant it, make it rhythmic:

• 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12...
• 5, 10, 15, 20, 25...
• 3, 6, 9, 12, 15...

Once skip counting becomes automatic, multiplication is just "which number in the sequence?"

2. Learn the Easy Tables First 🎯

Not all tables are created equal. Start with these—they have patterns that click immediately:

• ×1 — Anything times 1 is itself. Done.
• ×2 — Just double it. 7×2 = 7+7 = 14.
• ×10 — Add a zero. 6×10 = 60.
• ×5 — Always ends in 0 or 5. Half of ×10.
• ×11 — Up to 9, repeat the digit. 11×4 = 44.

That's almost half the table done with barely any memorization!

3. The 9s Finger Trick ✋

This one blows kids' minds. Hold up both hands, palms facing you:

1. For 9×3, put down your 3rd finger
2. Count fingers to the LEFT of the down finger: 2
3. Count fingers to the RIGHT: 7
4. Answer: 27

Works for 9×1 through 9×10. Try it!

4. Use the Commutative Property 🔄

Here's a secret that cuts the work in half: 3×7 = 7×3. Same answer, different order. Once your child knows one, they automatically know the other.

This reduces the unique facts from 144 down to about 78. Much more manageable.

5. Focus on the "Tricky Dozen" 🧠

After the easy ones, there are about 12 facts that cause the most trouble:

Give these extra attention. Flashcards, games, extra practice—whatever works.

6. Daily Practice, But Keep It Short ⏰

Here's what doesn't work: one long practice session per week. Here's what does: 5-10 minutes every single day.

The brain consolidates memories during sleep. Daily exposure + overnight consolidation = faster memorization.

7. Make It Competitive 🏆

Nothing motivates like a little competition. Time your child and track their personal bests. Celebrate improvements. Maybe even compete together as a family.

Some parents use small rewards: stickers, extra screen time, picking dinner. Whatever works for your family.

How Long Does It Take?

With consistent daily practice using these methods, most kids can master all tables in 4-8 weeks. Some faster, some slower—and that's okay. Progress over perfection.

Written by the PanMaths Team • Your Math Learning Companion