Multiplication mazes

Quick answer

Multiplication mazes are fun puzzle games where you follow a path through a maze by choosing the correct multiplication answers. You start at the entrance, and each step must lead you to the next correct product to find the way out.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to solve multiplication problems to find the correct path through a maze, using your times table knowledge to move from one number to the next.

• You can identify multiplication facts from 0 to 12.
• You can use multiplication to find the correct path in a maze.
• You can work out which numbers are the products of given multiplication facts.
• You can check your answers to make sure they match the maze rules.

Why this matters

Multiplication mazes are more than just puzzles – they help you practice and remember your times tables in a fun and engaging way. You use multiplication every day, whether you're sharing snacks, counting your toys, or working out how many items you need for a party. This game helps you build your skills and confidence so that you can use multiplication quickly and easily.

In school, multiplication helps you solve bigger problems, like working out how many seats are in a theatre or how much money you’ll need for a group trip. When you play multiplication mazes, you’re getting ready for these more complex problems while having fun!

How it works

Think of a multiplication maze like a treasure hunt. You start at the entrance, and each step you take must be to a number that is the correct answer to a multiplication problem.

1. Look at the multiplication problem at the start of your path.
2. Work out the answer to that multiplication.
3. Find the number that matches your answer in the maze.
4. Move your path to that number and repeat the process.
5. Keep going until you reach the exit of the maze.

Each step of the maze uses multiplication facts from your times tables. The more you practice, the faster you’ll get at solving them!

Examples you can see

Let’s imagine you are in a maze where you start with the multiplication problem 3 × 4. You need to find the number that is the answer to this multiplication.

3 × 4 = 12

So, you must find the number 12 in the maze and move your path there. Now, the next multiplication problem might be 2 × 5.

2 × 5 = 10

You now move your path to 10. This continues until you find the exit.

Here is a simple example of a maze path:

This maze path uses multiplication facts from your times tables. You can draw this maze on paper or imagine it as a fun journey through numbers!

Try it as a mini adventure

Imagine you are a brave explorer in a land of numbers. You find a magical map with a maze that leads to a treasure chest. But the path is blocked by multiplication problems! To get to the treasure, you must solve the problems and follow the correct answers.

Your adventure starts at the entrance with the problem 4 × 3.

4 × 3 = 12

You must move to 12 to continue your journey.

Next, you see the problem 5 × 2.

5 × 2 = 10

Now, move to 10.

Then, the next clue says 7 × 1.

7 × 1 = 7

Move to 7.

Finally, the last problem is 9 × 0.

9 × 0 = 0

You’ve reached the treasure chest! You solved the maze and found the treasure by using your multiplication skills.

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking 5 × 5 = 20
• Why it happens: Confusing multiplication with addition.
• Fix: Remember that 5 × 5 = 25, because 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = 25.
• Mistake: Forgetting that 0 × any number = 0
• Why it happens: Not remembering that zero groups of anything is nothing.
• Fix: 0 × 7 = 0, because there are zero groups of 7 items.
• Mistake: Confusing 6 × 4 with 4 × 6
• Why it happens: Thinking order matters in multiplication.
• Fix: 6 × 4 = 24 and 4 × 6 = 24 – they are the same!

Parent and carer guide

Playing multiplication mazes with your child is a fun way to reinforce times tables and build confidence. Here’s how you can help in just 5-10 minutes:

1. Start by asking your child to solve a few multiplication problems, like 3 × 4 or 6 × 2.
2. Then, draw a simple maze with multiplication problems and answers on the path.
3. Let your child choose which path to take based on the correct multiplication answer.
4. Encourage them to say the multiplication out loud as they go.
5. When they make a mistake, help them count or use objects like blocks or counters to find the right answer.

Don’t worry if they get stuck – it’s okay to take a break and come back. The goal is to have fun and learn!

Practice questions

1. What is 3 × 7?
2. What is 8 × 4?
3. What is 11 × 2?
4. What is 0 × 9?
5. What is 5 × 6?

Answers:

1. 3 × 7 = 21
2. 8 × 4 = 32
3. 11 × 2 = 22
4. 0 × 9 = 0
5. 5 × 6 = 30

FAQ

What is a multiplication maze?

A multiplication maze is a puzzle where you solve multiplication problems to find the correct path through a maze.

How can I make a multiplication maze?

You can draw one on paper or use online tools. Start with a simple path and put multiplication problems along the way. Each answer should lead to the next step.

Why are multiplication mazes helpful?

They help you practice and remember your times tables in a fun, visual way, making multiplication more enjoyable and easier to learn.

Can I use multiplication mazes for any times table?

Yes! You can create mazes for any times table from 0 to 12.

What if I don’t know the answer to a multiplication?

Use counting, blocks, or a times table chart to help you find the answer. Practice makes progress!