The Facts About Math Facts

After 28 years of teaching math to students from sixth through twelfth grade, I can say with certainty: students who know their multiplication facts succeed in math, and those who don’t struggle—every single time.

Multiplication facts are the foundation of nearly every math concept students encounter. From fractions and division to algebra and beyond, fluency in basic facts allows students to focus on problem-solving rather than getting stuck on simple calculations. When students hesitate on basic multiplication, their confidence dwindles, and frustration sets in.

I’ve watched students excel simply because they had their facts memorized. They worked through problems faster, grasped new concepts more easily, and had the confidence to tackle challenging math topics. On the other hand, students who lacked fact fluency found themselves lost, struggling through every step of a problem because their mental energy was spent on calculations they should have mastered years earlier.

Memorizing multiplication facts isn’t about rote learning—it’s about setting students up for success. When facts are automatic, students can focus on deeper understanding, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Investing time in mastering multiplication today will pay off for years to come.

If you want your child to succeed in math, make sure they know their facts. It’s a simple step that makes all the difference.