The factors of a number are all the numbers which can divide that number without leaving a remainder.
For example, the factors of 12 are: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 12.
To find the factors of a number, first:
- List the smallest factor, which is the number 1. The number one divides all whole numbers, therefore, the number 1 is a factor of every whole number.
- List the highest factor, which is the number itself. For example, the highest factor of the number 12 is the number 12 itself.
- Divide the number by two: 12 divided by 2 is 6. Six is therefore a factor of 12.
- List all numbers between 1 and 6: 2,3,4,5
- Try to determine which numbers between 1 and 6 can divide the number 12 without leaving a remainder.
We can say with certainty then, that the factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 12.
Do you have any techniques for finding the factors of a number really quickly? Tell us about it in the comments section below.