Veerle Dielen · Elementary teacher · October 9, 2025 · Per Times Table

The Hardest Multiplication Facts (According to Kids) and How to Crack Them

Not all times tables facts are equally hard. A handful give kids consistent trouble across grades, classrooms, and countries. If your child keeps missing the same few facts, you are in good company. Here are the top 10 hardest, why they are so stubborn, and the strategies that actually crack them.

Understanding the Top 10 Hardest Multiplication Facts

Before diving into strategies, let's first identify the most challenging multiplication facts. These facts, consistently reported by teachers and math practice data, are the ones that most kids find difficult:

7 x 8 = 56 (consistently the most-missed fact)
6 x 7 = 42
6 x 8 = 48
7 x 9 = 63
8 x 9 = 72
6 x 9 = 54
7 x 7 = 49
8 x 8 = 64
9 x 9 = 81
6 x 6 = 36

What Makes These Facts So Difficult?

Understanding the reason behind the difficulty of these multiplication facts can help in addressing the challenge effectively.

Absence of Counting Shortcuts

While the 2s, 5s, and 10s are relatively easy due to their skip-counting nature, the numbers 6 through 9 do not lend themselves to quick skip-count patterns. They're too large to count up quickly but not large enough for clever tricks. For example, when you multiply by 5, you can quickly count by fives, but there's no similar shortcut for multiplying by 7.

Lack of Clean Patterns

Unlike the 9s, which have a recognizable pattern (like the digits of the products always adding up to 9), the 6s, 7s, and 8s appear random, making them harder to memorize. This randomness contributes to their notorious difficulty. For example, the pattern in the 9s can be a missing link for understanding how other numbers relate to each other.

Fatigue from Learning Sequence

By the time kids reach these tougher multiplication facts, they might already be weary from learning easier tables. Their motivation can wane, making these facts seem even more challenging. They might feel like they’ve hit a mathematical wall just when they need to push through to the other side.

Few Real-World Connections

Unlike numbers such as 12 (dozen), 24 (hours in a day), and 60 (minutes in an hour), numbers like 42 or 56 don't have as many real-world applications, making them harder for the brain to latch onto. Associating numbers with familiar concepts can greatly aid memorization.

Strategies to Master the Challenging Facts

Here are some targeted strategies to help your child conquer these challenging multiplication facts:

The 5-6-7-8 Trick

This clever trick can help memorize 7 x 8 = 56. Simply count up: 5, 6, 7, 8. The numbers 5 and 6 make up 56, and the next two are 7 and 8, which create the multiplication problem. This mnemonic device can be a game-changer for some kids. If they can remember the sequence, it provides a quick mental path to the answer.

Using Squares as Anchors

Memorizing square numbers like 36 (6x6), 49 (7x7), 64 (8x8), and 81 (9x9) can create a strong foundation. Once these are locked in, other facts become "near a square." For example, 6x7 is just one increment away from 6x6, making it 36 + 6 = 42. This approach turns the multiplication table into a more predictable landscape.

Doubling Strategy

For children who have mastered their 3s and 4s, applying a doubling strategy can simplify the 6s and 8s. For instance, knowing that 6 x something is double the equivalent 3 fact and 8 x something is double the equivalent 4 fact can make learning easier. If they know 3 x 7 = 21, doubling it to find 6 x 7 = 42 can be straightforward.

The 9s Finger Trick

This visual trick helps solve 9s multiplication problems. Hold up 10 fingers and fold down the finger corresponding to the multiplier. The number of fingers to the left indicates tens, and to the right indicates ones. For 9 x 7, fold the 7th finger: 6 on the left, 3 on the right, giving the answer 63. This trick turns a complex problem into a simple visual exercise.

Memorable Rhymes

"6 times 6 is 36"
"6 and 8 went on a date, came home at 48"
"7 and 7 jumped in line, came back as 49"

These rhymes can make multiplication facts stick in a child’s memory. While some children find them silly, for others, they are an effective memorization tool. Rhymes tap into auditory learning styles and can help break the monotony of rote memorization.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When teaching multiplication, it's crucial to steer clear of certain pitfalls that can hinder a child's learning process.

Overloading with Too Many Facts at Once

A common mistake is attempting to teach all multiplication facts simultaneously. This can overwhelm children and lead to confusion. It's more effective to focus on a few challenging facts at a time. Start with the most frequently used facts to build confidence and competence.

Neglecting Practice

Without regular practice, even well-understood multiplication facts can be forgotten. Ensure consistent and targeted practice sessions to reinforce learning. Make practice a regular part of your child’s routine, perhaps using flashcards or online games for variety.

Ignoring Individual Learning Styles

Each child has a unique learning style. Ignoring this can lead to frustration and disengagement. Tailor teaching strategies to fit your child's preferred learning method, whether it’s visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. For example, visual learners might benefit from colorful charts, while kinesthetic learners might enjoy using physical objects to count and multiply.

Actionable Tips for Parents and Teachers

Focus on a few challenging facts at a time to avoid overwhelming the child.
Incorporate multiplication practice into daily routines, such as during car rides or meal prep.
Encourage children to teach back the facts they have learned to reinforce understanding.
Use a variety of resources, including apps, games, and flashcards, to make learning interactive and engaging.
Set achievable goals and celebrate small victories to boost confidence and motivation.

A Weekly Routine for Multiplication Mastery

Creating a structured weekly routine can significantly aid in mastering multiplication facts. Here's a sample plan:

Monday: Introduction and Exploration

Introduce a new set of facts. Use visual aids and storytelling to make initial connections.

Tuesday: Practice with Games

Engage in multiplication games that incorporate the week's facts. This could include online games or physical board games.

Wednesday: Mixed Practice

Combine the new facts with previously learned ones. Use flashcards or apps for quick recall.

Thursday: Real-World Application

Find real-world scenarios where the facts are useful. For example, cooking or shopping can involve multiplication.

Friday: Quiz and Feedback

Conduct a short quiz on the week's facts. Provide feedback and discuss strategies for improvement.

Weekend: Relaxed Review

Encourage a relaxed review of the facts, perhaps through an educational video or a family quiz session.

For Grades K-2: Building a Strong Foundation

For younger children, laying a strong foundation is crucial for future success in multiplication.

Introduce with Objects

Use everyday objects like toys or snacks to demonstrate basic multiplication concepts. For instance, show 2 groups of 3 apples to illustrate 2 x 3.

Simple Patterns

Encourage recognizing patterns with the 2s and 5s tables as they are easier and form a good starting point.

Playful Learning

Utilize songs and games that involve counting and simple calculations to make learning fun. Songs that involve counting by twos or fives can be particularly helpful.

For Grades 3-4: Building Multiplication Skills

At this stage, children are ready to engage more deeply with multiplication facts.

Interactive Practice

Use flashcards and interactive apps to drill multiplication facts, making practice both fun and informative.

Visual Aids

Create colorful charts or use multiplication grids to help visualize multiplication facts. A multiplication chart in the child’s study area can serve as a quick reference tool.

Peer Learning

Encourage group activities where children can quiz each other on multiplication facts. Working with peers can make learning more dynamic and less intimidating.

For Grades 5-6: Mastery and Application

By fifth and sixth grade, students should be refining their multiplication skills and applying them to more complex problems.

Real-World Problems

Involve multiplication in practical scenarios like calculating totals when shopping or dividing items evenly. This helps solidify understanding and demonstrates the usefulness of multiplication.

Advanced Strategies

Introduce more complex strategies such as factoring and use of the distributive property to solve multiplication problems. These concepts build a bridge to algebraic thinking.

Assessment and Feedback

Regularly assess multiplication skills and provide feedback to encourage improvement. Timed drills and quizzes can help track progress and identify areas needing more focus.

Special Situations: Tailored Strategies for Unique Needs

Multiplication learning can be uniquely challenging for children with specific needs, but with the right strategies, they can succeed.

Addressing Test Anxiety

Help children manage test anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing before quizzes and tests. Provide a calm, supportive environment for practice, and encourage a positive mindset toward challenges.

Supporting Children with ADHD

For children with ADHD, keeping lessons short and engaging is crucial. Break tasks into smaller, manageable parts and incorporate movement into learning activities to maintain focus and interest.

Strategies for Gifted Learners

Gifted learners may benefit from more advanced problem-solving exercises and opportunities to explore multiplication in real-world contexts, such as through projects or research.

Helping Children with Dyscalculia

Children with dyscalculia may need additional support, such as one-on-one tutoring and the use of tactile learning tools like counters or abacuses to build a better number sense. Visual aids and repetition are key in reinforcing their learning.

Talking to Your Child's Teacher

Open communication with your child's teacher can make a big difference in their learning. Ask for feedback on your child's progress and collaborate on strategies to reinforce learning at home and in school. Consider setting up regular meetings or exchanges, even through email, to keep abreast of any changes or new approaches being used in the classroom.

When to Seek Outside Help

If your child continues to struggle despite your efforts, it might be time to consider outside help. Look for tutoring services, educational therapy, or resources like learning centers that specialize in math. These professionals can offer specialized strategies and assessments to target your child's unique learning challenges.

What Research Says About Multiplication Learning

Research shows that consistent practice and the use of multiple strategies are key to mastering multiplication. Children benefit from a multisensory approach that includes visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning experiences. Studies also emphasize the importance of motivation and the role of parental involvement in a child's success in math.

Long-Term Perspective on Learning Multiplication

Mastering multiplication is not just about passing a test; it's about building a lifelong skill. Multiplication is foundational for more advanced math topics and everyday problem-solving. Encouraging a mindset of growth and perseverance will benefit your child not only in math but across all areas of learning.

Reader questions

What age should my child master multiplication tables?

Most children are expected to be familiar with basic multiplication facts by the end of third grade, although mastery can vary by child. Consistent practice and reinforcement are key.

How long should my child practice multiplication each day?

A good rule is to spend about 10-15 minutes daily on focused practice, while also finding ways to incorporate multiplication into everyday activities.

What if my child is not responding to traditional teaching methods?

Explore alternative methods such as visual aids, interactive games, or personalized tutoring. Understanding your child’s learning style can also help tailor the approach to their needs.

How can I make multiplication practice more engaging?

Incorporate games, apps, and real-life applications. Use rewards and positive reinforcement to keep motivation high.

Are there signs my child might need additional help with multiplication?

If your child is consistently struggling, showing frustration, or avoiding math-related tasks, it might be time to seek additional support or assessment from a professional.

One last note

Teaching multiplication can be challenging, but with patience, creativity, and persistence, it is possible to help your child overcome the hardest multiplication facts. By understanding the reasons behind their difficulty, applying targeted strategies, and recognizing individual learning needs, you can provide the support your child needs to succeed. Remember to celebrate their progress and provide plenty of encouragement along the way. With the right approach, multiplication can transform from a daunting task into a manageable and even enjoyable part of learning.