

Step-by-Step Guide to Multiplication with Expanded Form
The skill of Multiplication of Single Digit Numbers Using Expanded Form is essential for developing a strong foundation in arithmetic and number sense. This method helps students understand multiplication more deeply and is especially helpful for exams, mental maths, and everyday problem-solving.
What is Multiplication Using Expanded Form?
Multiplication using expanded form is a method where numbers are broken down into the sum of their place values. Each part is then multiplied separately, and the partial products are added together to get the final answer. This process builds a clear understanding of place value and how multiplication really works. At Vedantu, we encourage this method to boost students’ confidence and number sense, making it easier to tackle both simple and complex arithmetic problems.
How Does Multiplication in Expanded Form Work?
Let's break down the process of expanded form multiplication step by step for single digit numbers:
- Write both numbers in their standard form (since both are single digits, this will be easy).
- Multiply the two numbers directly or, for larger numbers, break one apart into expanded form (e.g., 8 as 5 + 3).
- Multiply each part by the other number separately.
- Add up all the partial products to get the total.
Although single digits have just one place value, the expanded form approach helps when you later multiply bigger numbers. This is why teachers introduce and practice this strategy early on.
Worked Examples: Multiplying Single Digit Numbers Using Expanded Form
Example 1
Multiply 7 × 5 using expanded form.
- 7 and 5 are both single digits. Expand 7 as 5 + 2 (optional step to illustrate the method).
- Multiply each part by 5:
- 5 × 5 = 25
- 2 × 5 = 10
- Add the results: 25 + 10 = 35
Example 2
Multiply 8 × 6 by breaking 8 into 4 + 4.
- Expand 8: 8 = 4 + 4
- Calculate partial products:
- 4 × 6 = 24
- 4 × 6 = 24
- Add the products: 24 + 24 = 48
Example 3
Multiply 9 × 7, splitting 9 as 5 + 4.
- Expand 9: 9 = 5 + 4
-
Calculate partial products:
- 5 × 7 = 35
- 4 × 7 = 28
- Add the products: 35 + 28 = 63
Practice Problems
- Split 6 into 2 + 4. Find 6 × 8 using expanded form.
- Break 7 as 3 + 4. Find 7 × 9 using this strategy.
- Express 8 as 5 + 3. Calculate 8 × 7 using expanded method.
- Multiply 5 × 9 by breaking 9 as 6 + 3.
- Multiply 4 × 8 by splitting 8 into 4 + 4.
- Find 9 × 6 using two parts for 9: 5 and 4.
- Calculate 3 × 7 without breaking the numbers (for direct multiplication).
- Split 8 as 2 + 6 and find 8 × 5.
- Try 6 × 7 by splitting 6 as 3 + 3.
- Use 5 × 8, breaking 8 into 4 + 4.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to add all partial products at the end.
- Incorrectly splitting a single digit (e.g., 7 as 5 + 1 instead of 5 + 2).
- Mismatching the multiplication pairs (switching or skipping one part).
- Assuming expanded form is only for big numbers—it's a helpful practice for all levels.
Real-World Applications
The expanded form strategy helps with mental maths and estimating calculations in daily life. For example, if you need to quickly figure out 7 × 8 in the store, you can do (7 × 5) + (7 × 3) to get 35 + 21 = 56. This flexible thinking is useful when splitting bills, measuring amounts, or grouping items. At Vedantu, we show learners how this approach boosts their confidence in real situations.
In summary, the Multiplication of Single Digit Numbers Using Expanded Form is a stepping stone to more advanced arithmetic strategies. By practicing this method, students build number sense, understand place value, and gain tools for mental calculation and exam success. Explore more maths concepts and worksheets on Multiplication, Multiplying Fractions, and Expanding Numbers – Expanded Form at Vedantu to keep strengthening your maths basics!
FAQs on How to Multiply Single Digit Numbers Using Expanded Form
1. How do you write multiplication in expanded form?
To write multiplication in expanded form, break down each number into its place values, then multiply the corresponding parts and add the results. For example: 42 x 3 = (40 + 2) x 3 = (40 x 3) + (2 x 3) = 120 + 6 = 126. This method is helpful for understanding place value and simplifying multiplication.
2. How do you multiply single digit numbers?
You can multiply single-digit numbers using direct multiplication, repeated addition, or the expanded form method. Expanded form helps visualize the process, especially for beginners. For example: 7 x 6 can be seen as (7 x 6) = 42.
3. What is an example of expanded form in multiplication?
Here's an example of expanded form in multiplication: 8 x 9 = (8 x 9) = 72. Breaking down the numbers into their place values clarifies the multiplication process and improves understanding of the expanded form method.
4. When do I use expanded form multiplication?
Use the expanded form for multiplication when you need to visualize the process, improve understanding of place value, or tackle more complex multiplication problems. It's especially useful in early maths learning to build a strong foundation.
5. Why is expanded form multiplication important?
Expanded form multiplication is important because it breaks down complex problems into simpler steps, strengthens place value understanding, and improves overall number sense. It's a foundational skill that helps with more advanced maths concepts.
6. How can expanded form multiplication help estimate answers quickly?
Expanded form lets you focus on place values, which aids in quickly estimating answers. For example, you can easily estimate 48 x 5 as approximately (50 x 5) = 250.
7. What’s the difference between expanded form multiplication and area model multiplication?
Both expanded form and area model multiplication break down numbers. However, the area model uses visual representation with rectangles, while expanded form maintains a linear approach using place values.
8. Can the expanded form method work for double-digit numbers or only single digits?
Yes, the expanded form method works for double-digit and even larger numbers. It lays a solid foundation for understanding standard multiplication algorithms.
9. How does understanding expanded form prepare students for algebra?
Understanding expanded form builds a strong foundation for algebra by teaching you how to break apart numbers (and later, variables) which is crucial for equation solving and manipulation.
10. Why do some students find expanded form multiplication more difficult than the standard algorithm?
Some students find expanded form multiplication more challenging because it requires a strong understanding of place value and careful attention to detail. However, with consistent practice, this method can improve understanding and accuracy.
11. Multiply using expanded form 4th Grade
In 4th grade, expanded form multiplication helps build a strong foundation. It's useful for multiplying single and double digit numbers. For example: 12 x 3 = (10 + 2) x 3 = (10 x 3) + (2 x 3) = 30 + 6 = 36. This method enhances understanding of place value and number sense.
12. Multiplication using expanded form worksheet
Expanded form multiplication worksheets provide excellent practice. They help students master the technique through repeated application and improve place value understanding. Many free worksheets are available online for 3rd and 4th grade levels.

















