Adrian Chiles recently shared a method for mastering the nine times table, but readers have offered even simpler techniques. Jan Wiczkowski from Prestwich, Manchester, suggests writing digits 0 to 9 in a column, then repeating them from the bottom up. This method, he claims, works without finger contortions and helped him teach maths at Strangeways prison. Michael Miller of Sheffield proposes an alternative: multiply by 10 and subtract the multiplier (e.g., 7x9 = 70-7). Both approaches aim to reduce fear of maths, which Jan attributes to poor teaching.
Reader Suggestions on Policy and Repair
Council Tax Reform Proposal
Phil Tate from Chester urges Andy Burnham to promise council tax reform from April 2029. He highlights the absurdity of a terrace house in Makerfield paying as much as a Westminster mansion, suggesting that putting money in people's pockets before the election could be a vote-winner.
Repair Cafes as an Alternative to Disposal
Gabriel Partos, organiser of Wimbledon repair cafe, responds to Elizabeth Monger's lament about disappearing hardware shops. He notes that local groups like Repair Café International and Restart Project fix broken items for free, including a repair cafe in Plymouth.
A Wipeable Wall Chart for Novels
Veda Franz from Perth wishes for a wipeable wall chart listing the "100 best novels – the reader's choice," allowing personal editing. This idea follows a previous letter on the topic.
These letters reflect diverse reader opinions on education, policy, and practical solutions. Have an opinion? Email your letter for consideration in our letters section.
