Double, then add one more group
Build three groups from two groups and one more. For three groups of eight, double eight to get sixteen, then add another eight. You can also count 8, 16, 24.
3 × 8 = 2 × 8 + 8 = 16 + 8 = 24
The complete table
| Fact | Answer |
|---|---|
| 3 × 1 | 3 |
| 3 × 2 | 6 |
| 3 × 3 | 9 |
| 3 × 4 | 12 |
| 3 × 5 | 15 |
| 3 × 6 | 18 |
| 3 × 7 | 21 |
| 3 × 8 | 24 |
| 3 × 9 | 27 |
| 3 × 10 | 30 |
| 3 × 11 | 33 |
| 3 × 12 | 36 |
Check your reasoning
When counting in threes, track the number of steps. Starting at three is already the first group; it is not step zero.
Neighbouring facts differ by 3. If you know 3 × 6 = 18, add 3 to find 3 × 7: 18 + 3 = 21.
Try it yourself
Say or write an answer before opening each question. If you get stuck, use the method above, then try that fact again later without looking.
3 × 3 = ?
3 × 3 = 9. Reversing the factors gives 3 × 3 = 9 too.
3 × 7 = ?
3 × 7 = 21. Reversing the factors gives 7 × 3 = 21 too.
3 × 8 = ?
3 × 8 = 24. Reversing the factors gives 8 × 3 = 24 too.
3 × 11 = ?
3 × 11 = 33. Reversing the factors gives 11 × 3 = 33 too.
3 × 12 = ?
3 × 12 = 36. Reversing the factors gives 12 × 3 = 36 too.
Connect the tables
Compare the 6 times table and look for doubles or groups you can add. In the multiplication chart, follow the whole row and its matching column.