The first step in remembering a number is turning its digits into sounds.
Key idea
One digit, one consonant sound, in order. Then add vowels to find a word.
Worked example: Worked example
Turn 4,175 into sounds.
- 4 r, 1 t/d, 7 k/g, 5 l.
Answer: r · t · k · l (for example, "r d k l").
Worked example: Making a word
Find a word for 21.
- 2 n, 1 t/d.
- Add vowels: n + e + t = net; n + u + t = nut.
Answer: Net, nut, nod, knot.
| Pair to watch | Sounds |
|---|---|
| 6 and 7 | 6 is the soft j, sh, ch; 7 is the hard k, g |
| 8 and 9 | 8 is f, v (lips and teeth); 9 is p, b (both lips) |
| 0 and 1 | 0 is s, z (hiss); 1 is t, d (tap) |