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Summaries · Grade 5 Maths › Factors, multiples and the HCF
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Factors, multiples and the HCF

Multiples, factors and HCF, and divisibility rules. Read one part at a time and tap “I know this”. Then test yourself in the quiz.

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Multiples and factors

TermMeaningExample
multiplethe answers in a times tablemultiples of 4: 4, 8, 12, 16 …
factornumbers that divide exactly into a numberfactors of 12: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12
Meerkat tip

Find factors in pairs: 12 = 1 × 12 = 2 × 6 = 3 × 4.

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HCF

  • HCF (highest common factor): the biggest factor two numbers share. HCF of 12 and 18 = 6.
Rule

Factors of 12: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12. Factors of 18: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18. Common factors: 1, 2, 3, 6, so HCF = 6.

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Divisibility

Divisible by …if …
2the last digit is even
3the digit sum divides by 3
5it ends in 0 or 5
10it ends in 0
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Remember this and test yourself

Remember this: your summary
  • Multiples = answers in a times table.
  • Factors divide exactly; find them in pairs.
  • HCF = highest shared factor.
  • Divisible by 5 if it ends in 0 or 5.

Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.

Memory trick

Factors fit INTO a number; multiples grow OUT of a number.

Flash cards · Tap to turn over

Important words

First say the answer yourself, then turn the card over.

Test yourself · Part 2

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