Multiplication facts are the basic answers you get when you multiply two single-digit numbers together. Learning these facts by heart helps you solve math problems quickly and accurately.
Think of multiplication as repeated addition. For example, 5 × 4 is the same as 5 + 5 + 5 + 5.
Multiplying by 5 creates a predictable pattern. Each product, or answer, ends in either a 5 or a 0.
If you can count by fives, you already know the answers to the multiplication facts for 5.
To build fluency, it is important to memorize all multiplication facts for 5, from 5 × 1 through 5 × 12.
Doubling a fact you already know can help. For example, if you know 5 × 6 = 30, then 5 × 12 is double that, which is 60.
Once you know the facts, you can use them to solve word problems and more complex equations.
Always identify the number being multiplied (5) and how many times it is being multiplied (the other number). This tells you which fact to use.
A good way to check your multiplication is to use the addition strategy you already know.
If your repeated addition gives you the same answer, your multiplication fact is correct.