How it works: a quick refresher
The rules this worksheet practices, then one problem worked from start to finish.
| Strategy | How it works |
|---|---|
| Multiply the small numbers | The two factors are always from 2 to 10. Multiply pairs of them and look for the product. |
| Work backwards | For 42, ask: which two numbers here multiply to 42? 6 and 7. |
| Look out for decoys | Other times-table answers are mixed in. 30 is 6 × 5, but there is no 5 in the group. |
| The answer is never the biggest | Every group has a number bigger than the answer. |
Worked example
Find the number made from two others: 6, 7, 30, 42 and 54.
- 1Multiply the two small numbers: 6 × 7 = 42.
- 242 is in the group, so circle it.
- 3Check: 30 would need 6 × 5, and 54 would need 6 × 9. There is no 5 or 9.
- 4Write 6 × 7 = 42.
Ready-made versions
Three fixed versions you can link to or share. Each is a PDF with its own answer key.
- Challenge: six numbers Worksheets, version 1Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
- Challenge: six numbers Worksheets, version 2Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
- Challenge: six numbers Worksheets, version 3Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
Grade level and standard
Written for 3rd grade math (puzzles) and aligned to CCSS 3.OA.C.7. It also works as review in later grades.
Common questions
- Is there an answer key?
- Yes. Every worksheet has a matching answer key with each answer worked on the same grid or layout as the question. The worksheet code printed at the bottom of each page pairs a sheet with its key.
- Does this help with times tables?
- Yes. Each group asks for many facts in both directions: multiplying pairs, and asking which pair makes a number.
- Is there a version to play on screen?
- Yes. Flip's Number Hunt has the same puzzles as a free game: endlessworksheets.com/games/number-hunt/products-to-100.
- How many different versions are there?
- About a million per skill. Each time you press the button the problems are generated fresh, so you can print a different version for every student, a retake, or another night of practice.
- Are the worksheets free?
- Yes. They are free to print and copy for your home or classroom, with no sign-up.
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