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Maths History

Finger counting around the world

Compare finger-counting traditions and turn hands into a portable maths machine for early arithmetic.

Quick answer

Finger counting is used around the world in many different ways, and children can use their hands to count, add, subtract, and even multiply numbers up to 100.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will understand how different cultures use their fingers to count and calculate, and you will be able to use your hands to do simple maths like adding and multiplying numbers up to 100. Success signs:
  • You can show numbers 1 to 10 on your fingers in different ways
  • You can add two numbers together using your fingers
  • You can multiply numbers by using your fingers
  • You can explain how finger counting is used in different countries

Why this matters

Finger counting is one of the oldest ways people have learned to count and do maths. It helps children understand numbers better and builds strong maths foundations. It’s also fun to explore how different cultures use their hands in different ways. Learning finger counting can help you solve problems faster, and it’s a useful skill to have in everyday life, whether you’re counting your toys, sharing snacks, or playing games.

How it works

Finger counting uses your fingers to show numbers. Different cultures have different ways of using their fingers, but the basic idea is the same: each finger stands for a number. For example, one finger might mean one, two fingers might mean two, and so on. Some cultures use both hands, and some use special finger positions to show bigger numbers.

Examples you can see

Let’s start with a simple example: showing numbers 1 to 5 on one hand.
  • 1 finger = 1
  • 2 fingers = 2
  • 3 fingers = 3
  • 4 fingers = 4
  • 5 fingers = 5
Now, let’s try showing numbers 6 to 10 using both hands.
  • One hand shows 5 fingers, the other shows 1 finger = 6
  • One hand shows 5 fingers, the other shows 2 fingers = 7
  • One hand shows 5 fingers, the other shows 3 fingers = 8
  • One hand shows 5 fingers, the other shows 4 fingers = 9
  • One hand shows 5 fingers, the other shows 5 fingers = 10
You can also use your fingers to do simple addition.
  • 4 fingers on one hand + 3 fingers on the other = 7 fingers total
  • 5 fingers + 2 fingers = 7 fingers

Try it as a mini adventure

Imagine you are a young explorer visiting a new country where people count with their fingers in a completely different way. You are given a challenge to count 12 items using the local finger counting method. Step 1: Look at the numbers 1 to 10 on your fingers. Step 2: Count 12 items using both hands. Step 3: Try to show 15 on your fingers. Step 4: Add 8 and 5 using your fingers. Step 5: Try to multiply 3 by 4 using your fingers. Step 6: Explain how your finger counting is different from the local method.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking that you can only count up to 10 using one hand.
    Why it happens: Children often only learn to count to 10 on one hand.
    Fix: Use both hands to count higher numbers.
  • Mistake: Confusing which finger means which number.
    Why it happens: When using different finger counting methods, it’s easy to mix up finger positions.
    Fix: Practice with your fingers and make sure you know which finger stands for which number.
  • Mistake: Not using all 10 fingers for bigger numbers.
    Why it happens: Some children think that 10 is the biggest number they can count.
    Fix: Learn how to use both hands and special finger positions to show bigger numbers.

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers can help children learn finger counting by:
  • Practising with your child at home, using both hands
  • Playing games where you count together using fingers
  • Showing different ways to count numbers using fingers
  • Encouraging children to try different finger counting methods
  • Using finger counting to solve simple addition and multiplication problems
Remember, finger counting is a fun and helpful way to learn maths. Don’t worry if it takes time to get used to it. The more you practice, the easier it becomes.

Practice questions

  1. How many fingers do you use to show 6 on one hand?
  2. How do you show 12 using both hands?
  3. Add 7 and 3 using your fingers.
  4. Multiply 4 by 3 using your fingers.
  5. What is 10 minus 4 using your fingers?
Answers:
  1. One hand shows 5 fingers, the other shows 1 finger = 6
  2. One hand shows 5 fingers, the other shows 7 fingers
  3. 7 fingers + 3 fingers = 10 fingers
  4. 4 fingers × 3 = 12 fingers
  5. 10 fingers - 4 fingers = 6 fingers

FAQ

What is finger counting?

Finger counting is a way of showing numbers using your fingers. It is one of the oldest methods people have used to learn to count and do simple maths.

Why do different cultures count with their fingers differently?

Different cultures have developed their own ways of counting with fingers over time. These methods often reflect how people in that culture think about numbers and maths.

Can I use finger counting to multiply?

Yes, you can use finger counting to multiply small numbers. For example, you can use your fingers to show 3 × 4 = 12.

How can I practice finger counting?

You can practice by using your fingers to show numbers, adding and subtracting, and even multiplying. Try counting different numbers with your hands and ask a parent or teacher to help you.

Is finger counting only for young children?

No, finger counting can be useful for children of all ages. It helps build a strong understanding of numbers and can be used to solve more complex problems.