4 times table

The 4 times table is the 2 times table, twice

The 4 times table goes 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48. Once a child knows the 2 times table, this one is quick, because 4 is 2 × 2: every answer is the double of the 2 times table answer. 2 × 6 = 12, so 4 × 6 = 24. Use the chart above to see it: put the 2 times table next to the 4 times table and each number simply doubles.

Multiplication by 4 with the double-double trick

For multiplication by 4, double the number, then double again. 4 × 8: 8 → 16 → 32. 4 × 9: 9 → 18 → 36. Children who are good at doubles can solve every fact this way, and after a few rounds the answers come from memory. The worksheet "Double and double again" practices the two steps on paper.

Patterns in the 4 times table

All answers are even. The last digits repeat 4, 8, 2, 6, 0 (4, 8, 12, 16, 20, then 24, 28, 32, 36, 40). If an answer for the 4 times table ends in an odd digit, it is wrong.

4 times table games and worksheet

Practice the 4 times table with the trainer first (keypad answers, 10 questions), then race the clock in the speed test. Facts like 4 × 7 = 28 and 4 × 8 = 32 are the usual troublemakers; the game brings them back until they are right three times in a row. Then print the 4 times table worksheet, a practice sheet with an answer key, or take the 4 times table quiz at the end for a diploma. The 8 times table comes next: it is the 4 times table doubled.

A tip for parents

Use a dog for the 4 times table: "How many legs do 7 dogs have?" Let the child say both steps out loud: "7 doubled is 14, 14 doubled is 28." Hearing the steps tells you whether the trick is understood, not just the answer remembered.