The Magic of Finger Math: Unveiling the Clever Multiplication Trick

Riley Sundew

Updated Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at 12:00 AM CDT

In a world filled with complex mathematical equations and advanced problem-solving techniques, sometimes the simplest methods leave the most lasting impression. Recently, a captivating image surfaced on Reddit, revealing a delightful and clever strategy for mastering the 9 times table—a method that has left many both amused and amazed.

The image in question is a math study guide page, prominently featuring a section titled "Chapter 3" and a handwritten heading, "Study G." Beneath this, instructions prompt learners to "Find the product." The study guide presents two multiplication problems, each showcasing a unique approach to solving them.

For problem one, the equation "9 x 3 = 27" is displayed, with the answer "27" neatly enclosed in a box. What truly sets this study guide apart, however, is the illustration underneath: two drawings of hands demonstrating the finger trick method for multiplication. This age-old technique, which involves counting fingers to quickly determine the result of multiplying by nine, has sparked curiosity and fascination among viewers.

The comments on Reddit reflect a mixture of surprise and nostalgia. Many users expressed astonishment at discovering this method for the first time, with remarks like, "Wow. I had no idea this was a thing," and "How am I in my thirties and just learning this finger magic now?" This finger-counting trick has proven to be a revelation for many, simplifying what can often seem like a daunting task.

Commenters also praised the ingenuity of the method, calling it a "solid effort" and noting how clever it was for the student to illustrate their answer in such a unique way. The technique, described as both "clever" and "worth extra credit," harkens back to a time when showing one's work was often a challenge for students who understood the concepts intuitively.

The second problem on the guide, "10 x 7 = 70," with the answer circled, is more straightforward but serves as a contrast to the creative approach used in the first problem. Below these problems, additional handwritten numbers list multiples of ten, reinforcing the importance of memorization in learning math.

This image has not only provided a nostalgic trip down memory lane for some but has also educated those who never encountered such tricks in their schooling. The revelation of this finger-math method is a testament to the enduring power of simple, yet effective learning techniques, proving that sometimes, the most magical solutions are right at our fingertips.

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View source: Reddit

Top Comments from Reddit

Flourescentbubbles

Actual taught strategies.

hides_from_hamsters

Wow. I had no idea this was a thing. I was so confused about how everyone understood what the heck he was drawing. For anyone else lost, if you hold up all ten fingers then take the number 9 is being multiplied by, and count that many fingers from the left and lower that finger, the two groups of fingers represent the digits in the result.

bruhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh-

Pretty clever of that kid. The "tell how you know" answer for me would always just be "because it is"

VoidFoxi

That is also how I learned multiples of 9 lol

AngelicFrosting

Love how they illustrated their answer with finger counting - solid effort!

Rogoho

The p**** fingers have it.

kvothe5688

i don't understand finger drawing

Hardass_McBadCop

How am I in my mind thirties and just learning this f***ing finger magic now?

Uncommon-sequiter

That answer is worth extra credit.

besthelloworld

When I was a kid, the thing I hated the most was "showing my work" in problems so easy that I just couldn't even imagine how to break it down any further. I had stuff marked off for not showing it. I would sit down with my teacher and she would be like, "Well you should represent it as 9+9+9," and I'm almost freaking the f*** out like, "No s***, that's the definition of multiplication. Why do I have to tell you the definition of multiplication every time we have to do a multiplication problem???"

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