How to Find the Least Common Multiple of Two Numbers

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Assess your numbers.

   This method works best when you are working with two numbers that are less than
   10.
   
   If you are working with larger numbers, it’s best to use a different method.
   
   For example, you might need to find the least common multiple of 5 and
   8.
   
   Since these are small numbers, it is appropriate to use this method.
2. 2

   Step 2: Write out the first several multiples of the first number.

   A multiple is a product of any number and an integer.In other words, they are the numbers you would see in a multiplication table.
   
   For example, the first several multiples of 5 are 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and
   40. , Do this near the first set of multiples, so that they are easy to compare.
   
   For example, the first several multiples of 8 are 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 56, and
   64. , You might need to extend your list of multiples until you find one both numbers share.
   
   This number will be your least common multiple.For example, the lowest multiple 5 and 8 share is 40, so the least common multiple of 5 and 8 is
   40.
3. 3

   Step 3: Write out the first several multiples of the second number.

4. 4

   Step 4: Find the smallest multiple the numbers have in common.

Detailed Guide

About the Author