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LEVEL 1
Japanese Line Multiplication
How It Works
Step 1 — Draw Vertical Lines
For the first number, draw groups of vertical lines separated by a gap. For 23: 2 lines | gap | 3 lines.
Step 2 — Draw Horizontal Lines
For the second number, draw horizontal lines crossing the verticals. Same grouping with gaps.
Step 3 — Count Intersections
Count the dots in each diagonal region: Left = Hundreds, Middle = Tens, Right = Ones.
Step 4 — Handle Carries
If any region totals 10 or more, carry the tens digit to the left region.
Live Example: 12 × 13
LEFT
1×1=1
Hundreds
MIDDLE
1×3+2×1=5
Tens
RIGHT
2×3=6
Ones
Answer: 1 5 6 = 156 ✓
Pro Tips
1Best for 2-digit numbers. For digits > 5, count carefully to avoid errors.
2When a region totals 15, write 5 in that column and carry 1 left.
3Practice 11×12, 13×14, 21×22 to build speed and confidence.