Skill: Solve one-step multiplication equations

Explanation and Free Practice Resources

This understanding treats a one-step multiplication equation as an equality involving an unknown factor, such as $n \times 6 = 42$ or $6 \times n = 42$ , and interprets the relationship through equal groups, arrays, and related multiplication facts. The learner finds the missing whole-number factor using division or known fact families, understands multiplication and division as inverse operations, and checks the solution by substitution; equations with variables on both sides, negative numbers, fractions, or more advanced symbolic manipulation are not included.

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Detailed Explanation: Solve one-step multiplication equations

A multiplication equation has a missing factor. Your goal is to find the number that makes both sides equal.

Example:

n \times 6 = 42

Think about equal groups.
The equation means there are $n$ groups of $6$ , making $42$ altogether.
Use the inverse operation.
Division undoes multiplication, so divide $42$ by $6$ :

n = 42 \div 6

Find the missing factor.

n = 7

Check your answer.
Substitute $7$ for $n$ in the original equation:

7 \times 6 = 42

Since $7 \times 6$ does equal $42$ , the solution is:

\boxed{n=7}

You can also use the related fact family: $6 \times 7=42$ , $7 \times 6=42$ , $42\div6=7$ , and $42\div7=6$ .

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