What is a multiple?

A multiple of a number is the result of multiplying it by 1, 2, 3, and so on. The multiples of 4 are 4, 8, 12, 16, 20… Every number is a multiple of itself and of 1. Multiples are the counting pattern you get when you skip count.

Examples

• Multiples of 5: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25.
• 12 is a multiple of 3 because 3 × 4 = 12.
• The first three multiples of 7 are 7, 14, 21.

Quick facts

• The lowest common multiple (LCM) is the smallest multiple two numbers share.
• Multiples are the opposite idea to factors: 12 is a multiple of 3, and 3 is a factor of 12.