Area Model Multiplication

Area Model Multiplication

The area model helps you multiply by breaking numbers into parts and using a rectangle to organize the work. Each side of the rectangle represents one factor, and each smaller section shows a partial product.

1) Split the numbers

Break each factor into tens, ones, or other easy parts. For example, 23 can become 20 + 3.

2) Draw and label the rectangle

Put one factor along the top and the other along the side. Divide the rectangle to match the parts you chose.

3) Multiply each section

Find the product for each small box. If the parts are 20 and 3 on one side and 40 and 5 on the other, multiply each pair of parts.

4) Add the partial products

Combine all the smaller products to get the final answer.

Check your work

Make sure every box is filled correctly and that all partial products are added. You can also estimate first to see whether your final answer is reasonable.