Fact Families

A fact family is a group of math facts that use the same numbers. They show how addition and subtraction are connected. They also show how multiplication and division are connected. Knowing fact families helps you solve problems faster.

Addition and Subtraction Families

The numbers 3, 5, and 8 make a fact family. You can write: 3 + 5 = 8, 5 + 3 = 8, 8 - 5 = 3, and 8 - 3 = 5. That is four related facts from just three numbers.

Seeing these connections helps you check your work. If you know 3 + 5 = 8, you also know 8 - 5 = 3.

Multiplication and Division Families

Multiplication and division have fact families too. The numbers 4, 6, and 24 make a family: 4 x 6 = 24, 6 x 4 = 24, 24 / 6 = 4, and 24 / 4 = 6.

Learning one fact gives you three more for free. This is a great trick for memorizing math facts quickly.

Fun Facts

• Every fact family has exactly four facts, unless a number repeats, like 5, 5, and 25.
• Fact families show that addition and subtraction are opposite operations.
• Teachers use triangle cards with three numbers to help kids practice fact families.

Did You Know?

If you know all your addition fact families, you automatically know all your subtraction facts too. That is like getting a two-for-one deal!