Multiplying Lower Numbers 67
Th e numbers are below 9, so we draw the circles below. How
much below 9? Two and 1. Write 2 and 1 in the circles. Subtract
crossways.
7 – 1 = 6
Multiply 6 by the reference number, 9.
6 × 9 = 54
Th is is our subtotal.
Now multiply the numbers in the circles and add the result to 54.
2 × 1 = 2
54 + 2 = 56 Answer
9 7 × 8 = 6
–2
–1
54
- 2
56 Answer
Th is is obviously impractical, but it proves it can be done.
Let’s try 11 as a reference number.
11 7 × 8 =
–4
–3
Seven is 4 below 11 and 8 is 3 below. We write 4 and 3 in the
circles.
Subtract crossways.
7 – 3 = 4
Multiply by the reference number.