What is Fluency in Math, and Why Does It Matter?

When we talk about fluency in math, we’re addressing a critical concept that goes beyond simply memorizing facts. For many people, knowing basic facts means being able to quickly recall them, such as instantly answering that 8+7=15. But speed should not be how we are defining success in math. At the heart of math education is the idea that fluency is about understanding, not speed.

Our goal as educators and parents is to help children learn their basic math facts in a way that is rooted in real understanding, not just rote memorization. While we all want kids to eventually recall facts from memory, how we help them get there makes all the difference.

Fluency vs. Memorization: What’s the Difference?

Memorization: This is the ability to recall an answer by memory alone. For example, knowing that 8+7=15 but not understanding why. If a child forgets the answer, they may struggle to find a strategy to solve the problem.

Versus:

Fluency: This is much more comprehensive. It’s about being able to:

Choose flexibly among methods and strategies. For example, understanding that 8+7 can also be solved by breaking 7 into 5+2 so we can add the 2 to the 8 to make a ten (often a known fact for kids). Then we can add the 5 to the 10 to get 15 so 8 +7 =15
Solve problems in different contexts. Given a word problem or a situation, a child can identify which numbers matter and what operation (add, multiply, etc.) to do with them
Explain their thinking. A fluent student can describe the strategy they used and why it works.
Produce accurate answers efficiently. While speed isn’t the main goal, efficiency comes naturally as understanding deepens.

(NCTM: Principles to Actions, 2014)

Why Fluency is Better for Long-Term Success

Fluency gives children more than just the ability to recall facts—it gives them tools to tackle more complex math concepts later on. A child who understands the strategy behind 8+7=15 can use that knowledge when adding larger numbers, working with fractions, or even solving algebraic equations.

This deeper understanding also builds math confidence. Children who focus on fluency rather than memorization are less likely to feel frustrated or overwhelmed, as they have strategies to fall back on when they forget a fact.

Fluency Makes Math Fun

Another big advantage of fluency? It makes learning math more enjoyable! When children explore numbers and their relationships, math becomes a creative and engaging process rather than a stressful drill of flashcards and memorization.

Instead of pressuring students to recall answers quickly, we encourage them to play with numbers, ask questions, and develop their own strategies. This curiosity-driven approach helps foster a lifelong love of mathematics and learning.

Building Fluency in Your Family

If you want to support your child’s journey to fluency:

Focus on strategies, not speed. Help your child see multiple ways to solve a problem. Avoid using drills that focus on speed.
Use real-world examples. Turn daily activities like cooking or playing games into opportunities for math exploration.
Keep it focused on the thinking, not the answer. A focus on answers might discourage your child from engaging in mathematical thinking for fear of getting it wrong. By focusing on our child’s thinking, we show them math is about much more than getting the right answer.

Fluency in math is about more than just answers—it’s about empowering children with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

If you want help building your child’s fluency with addition facts, check out our Basic Addition Facts series!

If you’d like to learn more about fluency, check out the resources we’ve linked below, and don’t forget to explore our other posts for more tips on making math a joyful experience for your family!