INPUT ARTICLE: Article: It should be a large square divided into 10 vertical sections (columns) and 10 horizontal sections (rows) to make 100 smaller squares. Number each column from 1 to 10 from left to right. Number each row from 1 to 10 from top to bottom. Next, fill in each square with the number you get when you multiply the number of the row with the number of the column. For instance, the square in row 2 and column 3 should be 6, because 2 times 3 is 6.  Put this chart somewhere you’ll see it often, like on your fridge or in your bedroom. If you are memorizing up to the 12s instead of the 10s, give your chart 12 columns and 12 rows, so that you have a total of 144 squares. This is called “skip-counting.” You start with the number you’re counting by, then keep adding that same number. For instance, if you were skip-counting by 3s, you would say “3, 6, 9, 12…” because each of those numbers is what you get if you add a 3. This will help you remember which numbers you get when you multiply by a 2, 3, or 4. Look at your times table and read the column for 2, 3, and 4 out loud. For instance, you would say “2 times 1 is 2, 2 times 2 is 4, 2 times 3 is 6,” and so on. You should practice this for about 5-10 minutes twice a day until you can do it easily without looking at the table. Start at the bottom of each column and start reciting backwards. For instance, for the 2s you would start with “2 times 10 is 20, 2 times 9  is 18,” etc. Do this until you can say them backwards easily without checking the table. Have a friend ask you multiplication questions about the numbers 2, 3, and 4. Have them start by asking you in order (“What is 2 times 1? What is 2 times 2? What is 2 times 3?" etc.). Do that for 5-10 minutes twice a day, until you can answer each question easily, then have them start asking you the same questions but out of order (“What is 3 times 7? What is 2 times 5?" etc.). Instead of saying “2 times 3 equals what?” they will say “6 equals 2 times what?” This will help you really understand each multiplication problem back to front. This is sometimes easier when you can look at the numbers, since you will be used to seeing certain numbers together. Try doing written problems too. Cut triangles out of thick construction paper and write the 2 numbers you’re multiplying on 2 of the corners, with the answer on the third corner. That way, you can quiz yourself by looking at 2 corners and figuring out what’s on the third corner. You should only do this once you’re comfortable answering multiplication questions backwards. This exercise is also helpful for learning division. You can also find triangular multiplication flashcards to print out here: http://donnayoung.org/math/tricard1bl.htm Divide the remaining columns up and memorize the 5s, 6s, and 7s, then the 8s, 9s, and 10s (and the 11s and 12s if you're learning them). Don’t stop practicing columns once you’ve learned them!

SUMMARY: Make a times table chart. Practice counting up by 2s, 3s and 4s. Practice reciting the 2, 3 and 4 times columns in order. Learn to say the 2s, 3s, and 4s backwards. Ask someone to quiz you on what you just learned. Have someone ask you multiplication questions backwards. Write multiplication problems on triangular flashcards. Repeat this process for the rest of the times table.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: These can be colors that flatter your skin tone, look great together, or are simply your favorites.  Choose clothes that match your skin's undertones. People with warm undertones tend to look better with warm colors, while cool colors pair best with cool-toned skin. Make outfits that incorporate complementary colors. These are colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel: purple with yellow, blue with orange, and red with green. Try to build a wardrobe that includes staples of only one or two neutral colors. Neutrals will make up the foundation of most outfits but don't often look good together. For clothes, these neutrals are considered to be light and dark gray, light and dark brown, navy, and black.  Remember that you should wear what makes you happiest. If you have a favorite color that doesn't match your skin tone, then it still "works" for you. If you find an item that looks especially great on you right off-the-rack, check out other clothes by the same brand. You're more likely to find something else that looks great on you. While sizes and cuts are often inconsistent between brands, many brands keep their particular sizing the same over time.  At the same time, if you find a brand's quality going downhill or if it changes its sizing, start looking elsewhere. Keep in mind that American brands are typically more boxy and baggy compared to European ones. It's not uncommon for people to buy a few different versions of a particularly great piece. This will let you spice up your wardrobe while sticking with what you know works.  For workhorses like skirts and pants, consider buying even a couple identical pieces. This is an especially good idea if you have a lot of difficulty finding comfortable clothing that fits. If you can afford to purchase well-made, quality items now, you'll save money in the long run. For example, if a good pair of boots costs twice as much but lasts ten times as long, you'll end up spending much more money over time on ten pairs of cheap boots.  While expensive doesn't always equal well-made, well-made clothes are usually more expensive than poorly-made ones. With the exception of breathable summer clothes, a good sign of quality is whether or not a garment is lined. Check the seams before you buy. Make sure they're even and consistent. Poorly-stitched seams are a sign of poor quality. Go for quality over quantity. It's usually better to have a smaller wardrobe made up of well-made clothing than a larger one full of cheap pieces. If you're on a budget, don't forget to check online auctions and second-hand shops. You can often find what you're looking for at a fraction of the retail price.

SUMMARY:
Find colors that work for you. Stick with a brand that you like. Buy multiple versions of clothing that you like. Pay attention to each item's value.