X Tables
Times Table Methods

The hardest times table facts

Look at facts children often find tricky, such as 6 × 7, 7 × 8 and 8 × 9.

Quick answer

The hardest times table facts are often 6 × 7, 7 × 8, and 8 × 9, but with practice and the right strategies, all multiplication facts can become easier to learn.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will know how to learn the trickiest multiplication facts using helpful strategies, and you’ll be able to remember them more easily.

Why this matters

Knowing your times tables helps you solve maths problems faster and more confidently. Whether you're sharing snacks, planning a party, or playing a game, multiplication is everywhere. When you know the harder facts like 6 × 7 or 8 × 9, you’ll be ready for bigger maths problems in school and in life.

How it works

Learning the hardest times table facts isn’t about memorising them by rote. Instead, we use tricks, patterns, and familiar numbers to make them easier. Here's how: 1. Use what you already know – If you know 5 × 7 = 35, you can use that to find 6 × 7 by adding one more group of 7. 2. Look for patterns – For example, in the 9 times table, the digits of the answers add up to 9 (9 × 2 = 18, 1 + 8 = 9). 3. Use arrays and groups – Draw or imagine rows and columns to help you see the multiplication. 4. Try skip counting – Counting by 6s or 7s can help you get familiar with the numbers. 5. Use tricks for specific tables – For example, 7 × 8 can be thought of as 7 × 7 + 7.

Examples you can see

Let’s look at some of the trickiest facts and how to understand them: Example 1: 6 × 7 You might already know that 5 × 7 = 35. So, 6 × 7 is just one more group of 7: 5 × 7 = 35 6 × 7 = 35 + 7 = 42 Example 2: 7 × 8 Think of 7 × 8 as 7 × 7 + 7: 7 × 7 = 49 7 × 8 = 49 + 7 = 56 Example 3: 8 × 9 Try this: 10 × 9 = 90. Then take away 2 groups of 9: 10 × 9 = 90 9 × 9 = 90 - 9 = 81 8 × 9 = 81 - 9 = 72 Visual example with arrays: Imagine 7 rows of 8 items:
●●●●●●●●
●●●●●●●●
●●●●●●●●
●●●●●●●●
●●●●●●●●
●●●●●●●●
●●●●●●●●
Count all the ● symbols – that’s 56. So, 7 × 8 = 56.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Maths Treasure Hunt You are a brave explorer on a quest to find a hidden treasure. To open the treasure chest, you must solve the hardest times table facts. Each correct answer gives you a key. 1st time: What is 6 × 7? 2nd time: What is 7 × 8? 3rd time: What is 8 × 9? 4th time: What is 9 × 7? 5th time: What is 6 × 9? If you get all five right, you unlock the treasure chest!

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking 7 × 8 = 54 Why it happens: Confusing with 7 × 7 = 49 Fix: Remember that 7 × 8 = 56 (7 × 7 + 7)
  • Mistake: Mixing up 6 × 7 and 7 × 6 Why it happens: Not knowing that multiplication is commutative Fix: Both equal 42 – the order doesn’t matter
  • Mistake: Forgetting that 8 × 9 = 72 Why it happens: Not using a helpful strategy Fix: Try 10 × 9 = 90, then subtract 2 × 9 = 18, so 90 - 18 = 72
  • Mistake: Thinking 6 × 9 = 54 Why it happens: Mixing with 6 × 6 = 36 Fix: Use skip counting or break it into 6 × 10 - 6 = 60 - 6 = 54

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers, here’s how to help your child learn the hardest times table facts in just 5–10 minutes: 1. Start with what they know – Ask your child to recall easy facts like 5 × 5 or 10 × 6. Then build from there. 2. Use visual aids – Draw arrays or use objects like counters or blocks to show groups. 3. Play a quick game – Try a quick round of multiplication flashcards or a multiplication song. 4. Practice one fact at a time – Don’t rush. Focus on one tricky fact like 7 × 8 for a few minutes. 5. Be patient – It’s normal to forget sometimes. Encourage your child to try again and again.

Practice questions

  1. What is 6 × 7? Answer: 42
  2. What is 7 × 8? Answer: 56
  3. What is 8 × 9? Answer: 72
  4. What is 9 × 7? Answer: 63
  5. What is 6 × 9? Answer: 54
  6. What is 7 × 9? Answer: 63
  7. What is 8 × 7? Answer: 56
  8. What is 9 × 8? Answer: 72
  9. What is 6 × 8? Answer: 48
  10. What is 7 × 7? Answer: 49

FAQ

Why are 6 × 7, 7 × 8, and 8 × 9 the hardest times table facts?
These facts are harder because they don’t have simple patterns like 2s or 5s, and they’re not as frequently used in everyday life. They also don’t appear as often in early learning games or songs.

Can I use my fingers to help with these facts?
Yes! For example, to multiply by 9, you can use your fingers. Put down the finger that matches the number you’re multiplying by 9. The fingers before it show tens, and the fingers after show units.

What is the best way to remember the hardest times tables?
The best way is to use tricks, like using a known fact and adding or subtracting one group. For example, 7 × 8 is just 7 × 7 + 7.

Are all times tables equally hard?
No. The 2s, 5s, and 10s are usually easier. The 3s, 4s, and 6s are medium. The 7s, 8s, and 9s are often the trickiest.

How can I make learning times tables more fun?
Try games like multiplication bingo, apps, songs, or even drawing arrays. You can also make up silly stories to help remember facts.