Understanding Multiplication of Three-Digit Numbers
What You Already Know: You're great at multiplication tables and understand place value! Now we'll use those skills to multiply bigger numbers like 234 × 5.
The Column Method (Standard Algorithm)
When we multiply a three-digit number by a one-digit number, we use the column method. This means we line up our numbers and multiply each digit, starting from the ones place.
The Basic Steps:
- Write the larger number on top and the smaller number below it
- Multiply the ones place first
- Then multiply the tens place
- Finally, multiply the hundreds place
- If you get a two-digit answer, "carry" the tens digit to the next column