What is the best way to learn basic multiplication tables?

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    Multiplication
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around strategies for learning basic multiplication tables, focusing on methods for memorization and practice. It encompasses various approaches, including traditional techniques and modern resources.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Homework-related, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that repeated drilling and exercises are essential for mastering multiplication tables.
  • One participant emphasizes the need for multiplication to become a reflex, recommending practice up to at least 13 by 13.
  • Another participant mentions that using flashcards can be an effective memorization tool.
  • A participant shares personal experience of using flashcards purchased from a bookstore and highlights the availability of online resources and smartphone apps for practice.
  • One participant recommends khanacademy.org as a resource for basic math exercises.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of practice and memorization techniques, but there are multiple approaches suggested without a consensus on the single best method.

Contextual Notes

Some methods mentioned may depend on individual learning styles, and the effectiveness of different resources or techniques remains subjective.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals seeking to improve their basic multiplication skills, educators looking for teaching strategies, and parents assisting children with math learning.

Tyrion101
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I realized my biggest problem with math so far is I'm having trouble with basic multiplication, and was wondering what was the best way of learning the basic multiplication tables?
 
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Drill and exercise.
 
There's no trick. You just have to do it again and again until you have it. You shouldn't even think about anything less than 13 by 13 or so, it needs to just be a reflex.
 
Whatever helps you memorize the table. Flash cards worked well with one of my students last year.
 
Before I went back to school for math (at 35) I literally went to the kid section in the bookstore and bought flashcards for multiplication, division, addition and subtraction. (Funnily enough I found out I was worse at addition and subtraction than multiplication and division.)

There's also stuff online (just google) and also if you have a smartphone there are a lot of great apps. I have a few on my droid that I go through sometimes. I don't want to be one of those people who can only do advanced math but forgets how to do arithmetic, so I intend to keep it up.

-Dave K
 
khanacademy.org has a ton of basic math exercises you an do online.
 

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