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What is a Factor?


A Factor is a number that fits exactly into another number — no leftovers, no decimals. It’s like a perfect puzzle piece.

For Example:

Factors of 12 are:

1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12

Because all of those numbers can be multiplied in pairs to make 12:

2 × 6 = 12

3 × 4 = 12

If a number has many factors, it’s easier to work with in multiplication and division.


Fast Fact:

Every number has 1 and itself as a factor. But some have more!

Factors of 10: 1, 2, 5, 10

Factors of 7: 1, 7 (only two → it’s prime!)

Try This Game:

“Factor Find” Scavenger Hunt

1️⃣ Pick a number like 24.

2️⃣ Search your room or kitchen for objects in groups of numbers that divide into 24.

⦿ 6 cupcakes? ✔️

⦿ 8 books? ✔️

3️⃣ Write down all the factors you can show with real things!

It’s a great way to turn math into a hands-on adventure!

Understanding factors helps with multiplication, division, and especially fractions. Once you know a number’s factors, you can solve math problems faster — like a number detective!


Practice Time!

Try our Addition Quiz and see how fast you can solve them all! 🎯