Fun Math Tricks for kids

Multiplying by 9:

Here’s a fun trick to multiply any number by 9! Subtract 1 from the number you’re multiplying, then find the number you need to add to get 9. For example, let’s multiply 6 by 9. First, subtract 1 from 6 (6-1 = 5). Now, what number do you add to 5 to get 9? It’s 4! So, 6 x 9 = 54.

Squaring numbers ending in 5:

To find the square of a number ending in 5, multiply the first digit(s) by itself plus one, and then put “25” at the end. For example, to find the square of 25, multiply 2 by (2+1) or 2 x 3 = 6, and then add “25” to get 625.

Doubling and halving trick for multiplication:

Doubling and halving trick for multiplication: When you need to multiply two numbers, and one of them is even (divisible by 2), you can make it easier by doubling one number and halving the other. For example, let’s multiply 4 by 6. Double 4 to get 8, and halve 6 to get 3. Now, multiply 8 by 3 to get 24.

The 10% rule:

Finding 10% of a number is super easy! Just move the digits one place to the right. For example, to find 10% of 80, move the digits to the left to get 8.0 or simply 8.

Adding large numbers:

When you need to add large numbers, break them into smaller parts. For example, to add 234 and 345, break them down like this: 200 + 30 + 4 and 300 + 40 + 5. Now, add the hundreds, tens, and ones separately: 200 + 300 = 500, 30 + 40 = 70, and 4 + 5 = 9. Finally, add the three sums together: 500 + 70 + 9 = 579.

Mental subtraction trick:

To subtract a two-digit number from 100, subtract the first digit from 9 and the second digit from 10. For example, let’s subtract 68 from 100. First, subtract 6 from 9 (9-6=3) and then 8 from 10 (10-8=2). The answer is 32.

Learning these math tricks can make math more enjoyable and help you solve problems faster. These techniques will also boost your confidence when working on math problems. At Muallemi, we want to make learning math fun and exciting, and our personalized lesson plans and friendly tutors are here to help you every step of the way. So, try these tricks and let Muallemi guide you on your math adventure!