Tricks for the 3 times table
- Count in threes: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21…
- Add the digits of any answer and you get 3, 6 or 9: 3 × 8 = 24 and 2 + 4 = 6.
- Times 3 is double the number plus one more lot: 3 × 7 = 14 + 7 = 21.
The trickiest facts
These are the ones most people get wrong, so give them extra practice: 3 × 7, 3 × 8, 3 × 12.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 3 times table?
3 × 1 = 3, 3 × 2 = 6, 3 × 3 = 9, 3 × 4 = 12, 3 × 5 = 15, 3 × 6 = 18, 3 × 7 = 21, 3 × 8 = 24, 3 × 9 = 27, 3 × 10 = 30, 3 × 11 = 33, 3 × 12 = 36.
What is the trick for the 3 times table?
Count in threes: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21…
How can I learn the 3 times table quickly?
Practise for a few minutes every day. Say the table out loud, use the tricks on this page, then answer mixed questions until you can do each one in under 3 seconds. Focus on the facts you get wrong, such as 3 × 7 and 3 × 8.