What the multiplication grid is and how to read it
The multiplication grid is a two-way table that gathers every multiplication in one place: the first row and first column hold the numbers 1 to 10 (or 12), and each cell shows their product. To read 7×8 follow the row of 7 to the column of 8: the crossing cell shows 56.
Tip: print the full version to put up as a reference, and the blank one for the child to fill in. Filling it in is one of the most effective ways to memorise the times tables.
It is symmetric
7×8 and 8×7 give the same result: the grid is mirrored along the diagonal, so the facts to learn are halved.
The diagonal
On the diagonal are the squares: 1, 4, 9, 16, 25... that is 1×1, 2×2, 3×3 and so on.
Patterns and colours
The 5 column always ends in 0 or 5; the 10 column adds a zero. Noticing patterns helps memory.
To complete
The blank version turns the grid into an exercise: great revision before a times-tables test.
Multiplication grid: frequently asked questions
What is the multiplication grid?
It is a two-way table with the numbers 1 to 10 (or 12) on the row and column and their products in the cells. At the crossing of 7 and 8 you read 56.
How do you read the multiplication grid?
Pick a number on the first row and one on the first column: where they cross gives the result. Being symmetric, 7×8 and 8×7 are equal.
Is it free to print?
Yes: a full or blank version to complete, in A4 or PDF, no sign-up.