Words That Mean Multiplication in Word Problems
These are the 13 signal words that tell you to multiply in a maths word problem — with a worked example and the most common trap to avoid.
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Common trap
"Twice" and "double" mean ×2, not +2 — a very common mix-up in grades 2–3. "Double 6" = 12, not 8.
Multiplication Signal Words (13)
times product each every twice double triple of (with fractions/percent) groups of multiplied by per (in rate contexts) for every as many as
Worked Example
A classroom has 6 tables. Each table has 4 chairs. How many chairs are there in total?
Why Multiplication?
"Each" tells you the same amount repeats per group — 6 groups of 4 — so you multiply: 6 × 4 = 24.
✓ Answer: 24 chairs
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are signal words in math?
Signal words are words or phrases in a word problem that indicate which operation to use — e.g., "total" signals addition, "left" signals subtraction, "each" often signals multiplication, and "shared equally" signals division.
Does "of" always mean multiply?
Only with fractions or percentages — "half of 20" means ½ × 20 = 10, and "20% of 60" means 0.2 × 60 = 12. With whole-number contexts ("a bag of apples"), "of" is just descriptive and not a signal word.