Multiplying a 2-digit number by 36

1. Select a 2-digit number.
2. Multiply it by 4.
3. Add one zero.
4. Subtract the number obtained by multiplying by 4 from the last number.

   Example:

1. The 2-digit number chosen to multiply by 36 is 52.
2. 4 x 52 = 208 (multiply by 4).
3. Add one zero: 2080.
4. 2080 - 208 = 1872
   (Subtract left to right in steps:
   2080 - 200 - 8 = 1880 - 8 = 1872)
5. So 52 x 36 = 1872.

   See the pattern?

1. If the number to be multiplied by 36 is 86:
2. 4 x 86 = 344 (multiply by 4):
   (Think 4 x 86 = (4 x 80) + (4 x 6) = 320 + 24 = 344.)
3. Add one zero: 3440.
4. 3440 - 344 = 3096
   (Subtract left to right in steps:
   3440 - 300 - 40 - 4= 3140 - 40 - 4 = 3100 - 4 = 3096)
5. So 86 x 36 = 3096.

Mastering the subtraction from left to right will enable you to produce these products of 36 and 2-digit numbers quickly and accurately.