The 9 Times Table Finger Trick - Learn in 5 Minutes
Master the 9 times table instantly with the famous finger trick. Step-by-step instructions, visual guides, and mathematical explanation included.
What You'll Learn
- Step-by-step instructions for the 9 times finger trick
- Why the finger trick works mathematically
- Additional finger tricks for tables 6-10
- When to use finger tricks vs. memorization
The 9 times table finger trick is perhaps the most magical multiplication shortcut ever discovered. Using only your two hands, you can instantly calculate any 9 times fact from 9×1 through 9×10 without memorization, without calculators, and with 100% accuracy every time.
The Complete 9 Times Table Finger Trick
This method works for 9×1, 9×2, 9×3, 9×4, 9×5, 9×6, 9×7, 9×8, 9×9, and 9×10.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Setup:
- Hold both hands in front of you, palms facing away
- Spread all fingers wide
- Number your fingers from left to right: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Finger assignments: Left pinky = 1, Left ring = 2, Left middle = 3, Left index = 4, Left thumb = 5, Right thumb = 6, Right index = 7, Right middle = 8, Right ring = 9, Right pinky = 10
To Calculate 9 × n:
- Fold down the finger that corresponds to the number n
- Count the fingers still raised to the LEFT of the folded finger (this is the tens digit)
- Count the fingers still raised to the RIGHT of the folded finger (this is the ones digit)
- Combine these digits for your answer
Worked Examples
Example: 9 × 3
- Fold down finger #3 (left middle finger)
- Fingers to the left: 2
- Fingers to the right: 7
- Answer: 27
Example: 9 × 7
- Fold down finger #7 (right index finger)
- Fingers to the left: 6
- Fingers to the right: 3
- Answer: 63
Example: 9 × 5
- Fold down finger #5 (left thumb)
- Fingers to the left: 4
- Fingers to the right: 5
- Answer: 45
Example: 9 × 10
- Fold down finger #10 (right pinky)
- Fingers to the left: 9
- Fingers to the right: 0
- Answer: 90
Common Mistakes to Avoid
For more practice with the 9 times table, visit our dedicated 9 times table page.
Why the Finger Trick Works Mathematically
The finger trick is not just a parlor trick. It represents real mathematical patterns in the 9 times table.
The Tens Pattern
When you multiply 9 by any number, the tens digit is always one less than that number.
- 9 × 3 = 27 (tens digit is 2, which is 3-1)
- 9 × 7 = 63 (tens digit is 6, which is 7-1)
- 9 × 9 = 81 (tens digit is 8, which is 9-1)
When you fold down finger #n, you have exactly n-1 fingers to the left. This physically represents the tens digit pattern.
The Digit Sum Pattern
In every 9 times product, the two digits always sum to 9:
- 9 × 2 = 18 (1+8=9)
- 9 × 5 = 45 (4+5=9)
- 9 × 8 = 72 (7+2=9)
On your hands, when you fold finger #n, you have n-1 fingers on the left and 10-n fingers on the right. Adding these: (n-1) + (10-n) = 9. This is why the finger trick never fails!
Additional Finger Tricks for Tables 6-10
A more advanced finger method works for all multiplication from 6×6 through 10×10.
Setup:
Assign values to each finger:
- Pinky = 6
- Ring finger = 7
- Middle finger = 8
- Index finger = 9
- Thumb = 10
Example: 7 × 8
- Extend ring finger (7) on left hand
- Extend middle finger (8) on right hand
- Touch these fingers together
- Fingers touching and below: 2 on left, 3 on right = 5 total = 50 (tens)
- Fingers above: 3 on left, 2 on right = 3 × 2 = 6 (ones)
- Answer: 56
Finger Tricks vs. Memorization
When Finger Tricks Excel
- Provide immediate accuracy without prior memorization
- Build confidence for anxious students
- Create memorable learning experience
- Demonstrate mathematical patterns concretely
- Serve as reliable backup if memory fails
When Direct Memorization Wins
- Faster than physical trick execution
- Works for all facts (not just 9×)
- No dependency on physical props
- Essential for higher math fluency
- Enables quick mental calculation
Frequently Asked Questions
The basic trick only works for 9×1 through 9×10. For higher numbers, use the mathematical pattern (tens digit = n-1, ones digit sums to 9) or memorization.
No. It is a legitimate mathematical calculation method that demonstrates number patterns. As long as students arrive at correct answers, the method is valid.
The specific mathematical properties of 9 (tens digit = n-1, digits sum to 9) create the pattern. Other numbers have different patterns requiring different tricks.
No. Repeated use of the trick actually facilitates memorization through repeated physical and mental practice. Most students naturally transition from trick use to memory over time.
Master All Multiplication Tricks
The finger trick is just one of many powerful multiplication shortcuts. Want to learn 25 more tricks for every times table?
Check out our complete guide to multiplication tricks and discover strategies for every table from 1 to 12.