Two-Digit Multiplication
💡Keep the first number whole and split the second into its tens and ones. Multiply the whole number by each part, then add the two results.
Try it — multiply two numbers
liveKeep the first whole; split the second into tens and ones.
- 1
Split 26 into tens and ones
26 = 20 + 6
- 2
Multiply each part
34×20 = 680, 34×6 = 204
- 3
Add the two products
680 + 204 = 884
⏱️ Practice against the clock
A worked example
34 × 26: split 26 into 20 + 6. Then 34 × 20 = 680 and 34 × 6 = 204. Add them for 884.
Split one number, not both
The grid method they teach for 34 × 26 makes you work out and remember four separate products. That is one or two too many to hold in your head. Keep 34 whole and break only the 26: 34 × 20 is 680, 34 × 6 is 204, add them for 884.
Two partial products is about the most anyone can juggle without reaching for a pen, which is exactly why this beats the four-box grid when you are working in your head.
Which one to leave alone
Keep the rounder or bigger number in one piece and split the other into tens and ones. Multiplying by a clean multiple of ten does the heavy lifting almost for free.
If both numbers are awkward, borrow the round-and-correct trick: 48 × 23 is easier as 50 × 23 with two 23s taken back off the end.
Questions people ask
Which number should I split? ▾
Split the one that breaks into friendlier pieces. Usually you keep the larger or rounder number whole and break the other into tens and ones.
Is the grid or "FOIL" method faster? ▾
For mental work, splitting only the second number means you track two products instead of four, so it is usually quicker than a full grid.