Why Memorising Times Tables Doesn't Always Work

Many parents assume that the best way to learn multiplication tables is through repetition and memorisation.

But have you ever noticed that some children can recite their times tables perfectly and still struggle to apply them in math problems?

The reason is simple.

They have memorised the answers without understanding the concepts behind them.

The CPA Approach: How Children Learn Math Best

Singapore's Ministry of Education uses the CPA approach in mathematics.

CPA stands for:

Concrete → Pictorial → Abstract

Instead of jumping straight into memorisation, children first learn through hands-on experiences and visual patterns before working with numbers and symbols.

For example, before memorising that:

4 × 6 = 24

a child should first see that it means:

4 groups of 6

Using counters, cards, pictures, or arrays helps children understand where the answer comes from.

Once they understand the pattern, memorisation becomes much easier.

Why Some Children Struggle With Times Tables

Many children are asked to memorise times tables as isolated facts:

6 × 7 = 42

7 × 8 = 56

8 × 9 = 72

To a child, these numbers can seem random and unrelated.

Without seeing the patterns and relationships between the numbers, learning becomes a memory exercise instead of a thinking exercise.

This often leads to frustration and lack of confidence.

Understanding Before Memorisation

At AL1 Project Centre, we believe that children learn best when they first understand the concepts.

That is why our multiplication program teaches children to:

✓ See patterns in multiplication tables

✓ Understand how facts are connected

✓ Use visual strategies to reduce memorisation load

✓ Build confidence through understanding

When children understand multiplication, they no longer need to rely purely on memory.

Master Multiplication Tables in 30 Days

If your child struggles with times tables, our book Master Multiplication Tables in 30 Days: The 5+5 Memory System™ provides a structured step-by-step program that combines conceptual understanding with memory strategies.

Instead of asking children to memorise hundreds of facts, the book helps them discover patterns and connections that make multiplication easier to learn and remember.

The result?

Less frustration.

More confidence.

Better results in mathematics.

Because the fastest way to learn times tables is not through more memorisation—it's through better understanding.