Fact Families
Related addition/subtraction or multiplication/division facts using the same three numbers.
Key idea
Related addition/subtraction or multiplication/division facts using the same three numbers.
In depth
A fact family links the same three numbers by inverse operations. Knowing one fact gives you the other three for free, and helps check your work.
Worked example
Numbers 3, 4, 12: 3×4=12, 4×3=12, 12÷3=4, 12÷4=3.
Formula
Real-world uses
- Checking a subtraction by adding back
- Learning related facts such as 6 × 7 and 42 ÷ 7 together
Common mistake
Using the wrong number as the dividend. The product always comes first in division.
How to learn this
- Read the key idea and say it in your own words.
- Work through the worked example, then try a similar problem.
- Use the interactive lesson’s visual and mini-quiz to check the pattern.
Frequently asked questions
What is Fact Families?
Related addition/subtraction or multiplication/division facts using the same three numbers. It is a topic at the beginner level in Arithmetic & Number Sense.
What is the formula for Fact Families?
The key formula is 3+4=7, 7−4=3.
Where is Fact Families used in real life?
Real-world examples: Checking a subtraction by adding back; Learning related facts such as 6 × 7 and 42 ÷ 7 together.
What should I learn before Fact Families?
Make sure you are comfortable with Division with Remainder, the previous topic in Arithmetic & Number Sense.
What is a common mistake with Fact Families?
Using the wrong number as the dividend. The product always comes first in division.
How can I practise Fact Families?
Open the interactive lesson, play with the visual, then answer the three-question mini-quiz. Getting two right marks the topic complete.
What comes after Fact Families?
Move on to Zero and Identity next.
Related beginner topics in Arithmetic & Number Sense
- Counting & Cardinality – Assigning one number word to each object to find how many there are.
- Place Value – The value of a digit depends on its position: ones, tens, hundreds and so on.
- Number Line – A line where numbers are placed in order at equal spacing to compare and add them.
- Comparing Numbers – Use <, > and = to say which number is smaller, larger or equal.
- Ordering Numbers – Arranging numbers from least to greatest or the reverse.
- Even and Odd Numbers – Even numbers divide by 2 with no remainder; odd numbers leave remainder 1.