1 Times Table

Master the 1 times table with our interactive 5-step learning plan, drag-and-drop games, multiple-choice quizzes, a memory card game, and a printable reference chart. Understand the Identity Property of Multiplication through properly rendered mathematical formulas.

What Is the 1 Times Table?

The 1 times table is the simplest and most fundamental multiplication table. It demonstrates a powerful mathematical principle: any number multiplied by 1 equals the original number itself. This is called the Identity Property of Multiplication, formally expressed as \( a \times 1 = a \) for any real number \( a \). It is one of the first multiplication concepts children learn and forms the foundation for understanding all other times tables.

The 1 times table can also be understood through repeated addition. Multiplying 1 by any number \( n \) is equivalent to adding 1 to itself \( n \) times: \( \underbrace{1 + 1 + 1 + \cdots + 1}_{n\text{ times}} = n \). For example, \( 1 \times 4 = 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 4 \). This connection between multiplication and repeated addition helps students grasp what multiplication truly means.

The 5-Step Learning Plan

Our research-backed 5-step plan helps students master the 1 times table through progressive, interactive learning. Each step builds upon the previous one, ensuring deep understanding and automatic recall.

View and Repeat

Drag and Drop

Shuffled Practice

Multiple Choice

Earn Diploma

Step 1a: View, Read Aloud and Repeat

Familiarise yourself with each multiplication fact by viewing and reading it aloud. Click any card to hear it spoken.

Step 1b: Fill In Sequence

Test yourself by filling in all the answers in order. Click Check to see your score.

Step 2: Drag the Right Answer

Match each multiplication fact with its correct answer by dragging the answer to the question.

Questions

Answers (Drag These)

Step 3: Shuffled Practice

Practice the 1 times table in random order. This builds true automaticity — the ability to recall facts instantly.

Step 4: Multiple Choice Quiz

Answer all 15 questions correctly. Each question has multiple choices testing your recall from different angles.

Question 1 of 15

Step 5: Tables Diploma Challenge

Prove your mastery. Answer all 24 questions correctly to earn your official 1 Times Table Diploma.

Progress: 0/24 Correct | Time: 0:00

Memory Times Table Game

Match multiplication facts with their answers by flipping cards. Find all 12 pairs to win.

Moves: 0 | Pairs Found: 0/12

1 Times Table Chart (1 to 20)

A complete reference chart showing every multiplication fact from \( 1 \times 1 \) to \( 1 \times 20 \). Use this for quick reference and memorisation.

Multiplication	Result

The Identity Property of Multiplication

The 1 times table demonstrates the Identity Property of Multiplication: any number multiplied by 1 equals itself. Formally, for every real number \( a \): \[ a \times 1 = 1 \times a = a \] The number 1 is called the multiplicative identity because it leaves other numbers unchanged. This property is essential for understanding algebra, simplifying expressions, and working with fractions where multiplying by \( \frac{n}{n} = 1 \) preserves value.

Multiplication Formulas and Mathematical Properties

The 1 times table illustrates several fundamental properties of multiplication. These formulas are rendered in proper mathematical notation and apply to all real numbers.

Formula 1: Identity Property of Multiplication

Any number multiplied by 1 equals itself. The number 1 is the multiplicative identity element:

\[ a \times 1 = 1 \times a = a \quad \text{for all } a \in \mathbb{R} \]

This is the defining property of the 1 times table. Every entry in the table equals the multiplier itself.

Formula 2: Multiplication as Repeated Addition

Multiplying 1 by \( n \) is equivalent to adding 1 to itself \( n \) times:

\[ 1 \times n = \underbrace{1 + 1 + 1 + \cdots + 1}_{n \text{ times}} = n \]

For example, \( 1 \times 7 = 1+1+1+1+1+1+1 = 7 \). This connects multiplication to addition conceptually.

Formula 3: Commutative Property

The order of multiplication does not change the result:

\[ 1 \times n = n \times 1 \]

Whether you write \( 1 \times 8 \) or \( 8 \times 1 \), the answer is always 8. This is the commutative property of multiplication.

Formula 4: Inverse Relationship with Division

Multiplication by 1 and division by 1 are inverse operations that preserve the original value:

\[ \text{If } 1 \times n = n, \text{ then } n \div 1 = n \text{ and } n \div n = 1 \]

For example: \( 1 \times 8 = 8 \), therefore \( 8 \div 1 = 8 \) and \( 8 \div 8 = 1 \). These form a fact family.

Formula 5: Multiplicative Identity in Fractions

Any fraction equal to 1 can multiply a number without changing its value:

\[ a \times \frac{n}{n} = a \times 1 = a \quad \text{for } n \neq 0 \]

This is fundamental to simplifying fractions and finding equivalent fractions: \( \frac{3}{4} \times \frac{2}{2} = \frac{6}{8} \), because \( \frac{2}{2} = 1 \).

Formula 6: General Multiplication Table Formula

The general formula for any entry in the 1 times table:

\[ f(n) = 1 \times n = n, \quad n \in \{1, 2, 3, \ldots, 12\} \]

This is a linear function with slope 1 and y-intercept 0, graphically represented as the line \( y = x \) passing through the origin.

Educational Facts About the 1 Times Table

Foundation Skill

The 1 times table is the perfect starting point for learning multiplication. It builds confidence and introduces the concept that multiplication is a mathematical operation with predictable patterns.

Repeated Addition

The 1 times table can be thought of as repeated addition of 1. For example, \( 1 \times 7 \) means adding 1 seven times. This connection helps students understand what multiplication really means.

Pattern Recognition

Students quickly notice that in the 1 times table, the answer is always the second number. This pattern recognition skill is crucial for mathematical thinking and learning more complex tables.

Quick Recall

Because of its simplicity, the 1 times table helps develop automaticity — the ability to recall facts instantly without calculation. This cognitive skill is essential for more advanced mathematics.

Real-World Use

Understanding "1 times" applies daily: 1 pack of 6 eggs equals 6 eggs. 1 group of 10 students equals 10 students. This connects abstract maths to concrete life situations.

Algebraic Foundation

The Identity Property \( a \times 1 = a \) is one of the axioms of algebra. It appears repeatedly when simplifying expressions, solving equations, and working with matrices in higher mathematics.

Tips for Mastering the 1 Times Table

Practice Daily

Just 5-15 minutes of focused practice every day is more effective than longer, irregular sessions. Consistency builds automaticity and long-term retention.

Use Multiple Methods

Mix flashcards, games, worksheets, and digital tools. Variety keeps learning engaging and reinforces through different cognitive pathways.

Master Before Moving On

Ensure complete mastery of the 1 times table before progressing to the 2 times table. Build on solid foundations for lasting success.

Connect to Real Life

Point out examples in daily life: 1 pack of 6 eggs equals 6 eggs, 1 group of 10 students equals 10 students. Real context aids understanding.

Praise Progress

Celebrate achievements and improvements. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and motivation to continue learning multiplication tables.

Make It Fun

Use songs, rhymes, games, and competitive challenges. When learning is enjoyable, retention improves dramatically for all learners.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1 Times Table

Why is the 1 times table important to learn?

The 1 times table is the foundation of all multiplication. It teaches the Identity Property of Multiplication and builds confidence for learning more complex tables. Mastering this table ensures students understand that multiplication has patterns and properties that make calculation easier. It is typically the first times table introduced in school because every answer is simply the multiplier itself.

How long does it take to learn the 1 times table?

Most students can master the 1 times table in 1-2 days with regular practice. The pattern is so simple that once students understand "any number times 1 equals that number," they have essentially grasped the concept. However, building true automaticity (instant recall without thinking) typically takes a week of daily 5-15 minute practice sessions using varied methods such as quizzes, games, and flashcards.

What is the Identity Property of Multiplication?

The Identity Property states that any number multiplied by 1 equals itself, expressed mathematically as \( a \times 1 = a \). The number 1 is called the "multiplicative identity" because it preserves the identity of other numbers. This property is one of the fundamental axioms of arithmetic and algebra, appearing throughout mathematical study in equations, fractions, and proofs.

How should I practice the 1 times table?

Follow our proven 5-step plan: (1) View and repeat the facts aloud, (2) Fill in answers in sequence, (3) Practice in random/shuffled order, (4) Take the multiple-choice quiz, and (5) Earn your diploma by answering all 24 questions correctly. Supplement with the memory card game and daily 5-15 minute sessions. Mixing different practice methods keeps learning engaging and builds stronger recall pathways.

When should children learn the 1 times table?

Children typically learn the 1 times table in Year 2 or Year 3 (ages 6-8), though some may start earlier. It is usually the first multiplication table taught because it is the simplest and builds foundational skills. The key is ensuring children understand the concept of multiplication as groups of objects before focusing on memorisation. When children are conceptually ready, the 1 times table is the ideal starting point.

Can the 1 times table help with division?

Absolutely. Understanding that \( 1 \times 8 = 8 \) helps students quickly grasp that \( 8 \div 1 = 8 \) and \( 8 \div 8 = 1 \). This connection between multiplication and division (inverse operations) is crucial for mathematical fluency. When students learn fact families — \( 1 \times 8 = 8 \), \( 8 \times 1 = 8 \), \( 8 \div 1 = 8 \), \( 8 \div 8 = 1 \) — they build a deeper understanding of number relationships.

About the Author

Adam

Co-Founder @ RevisionTown

Math expert specializing in various international curricula including IB (International Baccalaureate), AP (Advanced Placement), GCSE, IGCSE, A-Levels, and more. Dedicated to creating engaging, interactive learning tools that help students master mathematics through proven educational methods. Passionate about making times tables fun and accessible for learners of all ages through innovative teaching strategies and comprehensive practice resources.