Learn factors and multiples step by step
Learn factors step by step in 6 levels, from factor pairs to GCF and LCM word problems, with a 5-question test for each level.
🧒 Kids: tap Start level ▶ and get 4 of 5 right to pass. Can you reach level 6? 🏆
Which level for which grade?
There are 6 levels, from factor pairs to GCF and LCM word problems. Each level has short lessons and a 5-question test; get 4 right to pass. Progress is saved on this device, so your child can come back and carry on.
| Level | Skill | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Factor pairs | 4 |
| 2 | Multiples and counting factors | 4 |
| 3 | Prime and composite | 4–5 |
| 4 | Prime factorization | 5–6 |
| 5 | GCF and LCM | 6 |
| 6 | Word problems | 6 |
How to use the levels
- Find the starting level. Take the tests from level 1 until your child scores under 4. That is the level to work on.
- Learn it. Open the Learn links for that level: each lesson has pictures, a parent script and a quiz.
- Practice for a few days. Use the practice tool on that skill, and check answers with the calculator.
- Retake the test. 4 out of 5 passes the level. Move on to the next one.
Level 1 is the one to take slowly. A child who can list factor pairs quickly will find every later level easier.
Why the levels are in this order
Each level uses the one before it. Factor pairs come first, because every later skill lists factors. Multiples come next, with counting factors, so children see both sides of a times fact.
Prime and composite numbers sort numbers by how many factors they have. Prime factorization then splits any number into primes.
The GCF and LCM use factor lists, multiple lists or primes. Word problems come last, because the hard part is choosing between them.
Tools that help with every level
The GCF and LCM calculator shows the factors, factor tree, GCF and LCM of any numbers, with every step. Use it to check work, not to replace it.
The times tables matter most of all. Quick recall of facts like 7 × 8 makes factor pairs and multiples fast. See the times tables.
More factors and multiples practice
- Factors and multiples quiz for grades 4 to 6.
- Factors and multiples practice by skill.
- GCF and LCM calculator.
- Printable worksheets: factors and multiples, prime numbers, GCF and LCM.
For teachers
The levels work on a projector for a whole-class warm-up. Progress is saved only in each device’s browser, so no login or student data is needed. On shared computers, use Reset my progress at the end of the lesson.
Practice questions (answers below)
Ask these out loud or write them down. Check each answer, and ask “how did you get that?” for one or two.
- Level 1: factor pairs of 18
- Level 1: is 4 a factor of 30?
- Level 2: the 6th multiple of 9
- Level 2: how many factors does 12 have?
- Level 3: is 49 prime?
- Level 3: is 222 divisible by 3?
- Level 4: 36 as a product of primes
- Level 5: GCF of 20 and 30
- Level 5: LCM of 4 and 6
- Level 6: 15 roses and 25 tulips in identical bunches, none left: most bunches?
Show the answers
- 1 × 18, 2 × 9, 3 × 6
- No
- 54
- 6
- No: 7 × 7
- Yes: 2 + 2 + 2 = 6
- 2² × 3²
- 10
- 12
- 5 (GCF)
Common mistakes
How to teach it at home
Level chart
Print a chart of 6 boxes and colour one each time a level is passed.
Celebrate
A small reward at levels 3 and 6.
Number of the day
Pick one number each day: list its factor pairs, say if it is prime and find its first five multiples.
By grade
Check every topic at once
The free math check-up tests every topic of one grade in 10 to 20 minutes. It shows which topics are solid and where to start practicing. Levels you pass here also appear on your progress page.
More for each grade: Grade 4 math and the CBSE class 4 maths guide; Grade 5 math and the CBSE class 5 maths guide; Grade 6 math and the CBSE class 6 maths guide.
Worksheets and practice
Factors and multiples worksheet: printable PDF with an answer key. · Make a fresh test
Factors and multiples quiz · Multiplication practice trainer · 1-minute speed test
Last reviewed
Questions parents ask
How do you learn factors and multiples step by step?
Start with factor pairs and multiples, then prime and composite numbers. Next come prime factorization, the GCF and LCM, and finally word problems.
What is the hardest part of factors and multiples?
Usually choosing between the GCF and the LCM in word problems, and finding every factor pair without missing one.
How long does it take to learn factors and multiples?
Factor pairs and primes take most of grade 4. The GCF and LCM take a few weeks in grade 6 with short daily practice.
Is progress saved?
Yes, passed levels are saved in this browser on this device. Nothing is sent to us.
Which level should a 6th grader start at?
Take the level 1 and 2 tests first. If both are easy, start at level 3 and work up to the GCF and LCM.