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Skip Counting by 3 - Chart, Number Line, Examples

Skip counting by 3 is a simple yet powerful math skill. It assists the learners in interpretation of numbers, identification of patterns, and a sound base of multiplication and division. Learning math through forward and backward skip counting by 3 practice using a skip counting by 3 chart and skip counting by 3 number line and applying skip counting by 3 examples to real life scenarios make learning mathematics easy and enjoyable.
authorImageShivam Singh12 Dec, 2025

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Skip Counting by 3

Skip Counting by 3

Skip counting by 3 means adding 3 repeatedly to a starting number. For instance, when you start from 0 and keep adding 3, you will have the sequence of 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, etc. This Skip counting method is very effective in teaching children the multiplication tables, developing their number sense, and understanding arithmetic sequences as well.

Skip counting by 3 is a basic math skill that lets children examine numbers, see the patterns, and acquire a solid ground for multiplication and division.  Learning how to skip count by 3 also introduces multiples of 3, which are essential for mastering the 3-times table.

What is Skip Counting by 3?

Skip counting by 3 is a counting method where you add 3 to the previous number instead of 1. It is also referred to as the counting in 3s. Forward or backward skip counting can be applied depending on the order of the numbers in the sequence you want to count.

1. Forward Skip Counting by 3

Forward skip counting means starting from a number (usually 0 or 3) and adding 3 repeatedly:

0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, …

2. Backward Skip Counting by 3

Backward skip counting means starting from a larger number and subtracting 3 each time:

30, 27, 24, 21, 18, 15, 12, 9, 6, 3, 0

Skip Counting by 3 Chart

A skip counting by 3 chart is a visual representation of numbers obtained by adding 3 repeatedly. Charts make learning fun and help children see patterns clearly.

Example Skip Counting by 3 Chart (up to 30)

Count by 3s

Numbers

1st multiple

3

2nd multiple

6

3rd multiple

9

4th multiple

12

5th multiple

15

6th multiple

18

7th multiple

21

8th multiple

24

9th multiple

27

10th multiple

30

Charts can be extended to skip count by 3 up to 100 or beyond. Using a chart regularly helps children remember the multiples of 3 and practice forward and backward skip counting by 3.

Read More: Counting Numbers

Skip Counting by 3 Upto 100

Counting by 3s up to 100 is a useful exercise to practice the multiples of 3. Start at 3 and keep adding 3 until you reach 100.

Sequence for Skip Counting by 3 up to 100: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39, 42, 45, 48, 51, 54, 57, 60, 63, 66, 69, 72, 75, 78, 81, 84, 87, 90, 93, 96, 99

Skip Counting by 3 Number Line

A skip counting by 3 number line is a helpful tool that shows numbers spaced at equal intervals of 3. This method makes it easier to see the sequence and understand repeated addition.

How to Use a Skip Counting by 3 Number Line

  1. Draw a number line starting at 0.

  2. Mark points at intervals of 3 (0, 3, 6, 9, 12…).

  3. Move along the line in jumps of 3 to follow the skip count of 3.

Example of a Skip Counting by 3 Number Line: 0 → 3 → 6 → 9 → 12 → 15 → 18 → 21 → 24 → 27 → 30

Advantages of a Number Line

  • Makes skip counting by 3 visual and easy to follow.

  • Helps children understand that skip counting is just adding 3 repeatedly.

  • Useful for practicing forward and backward skip counting by 3.

  • Improves understanding of addition and arithmetic patterns.

A number line is especially helpful for young learners who benefit from visual and hands-on learning.

Skip Counting by 3 Examples

Using examples helps learners understand how to apply skip counting in math and real-life situations.

Forward Skip Counting by 3

  • Starting at 3: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15

  • Starting at 10: 10, 13, 16, 19, 22

Backward Skip Counting by 3

  • Starting at 30: 30, 27, 24, 21, 18

  • Starting at 50: 50, 47, 44, 41, 38

Real-Life Examples

  • Counting coins in multiples of 3.

  • Grouping objects like pencils, toys, or chairs in sets of 3.

  • Counting days in multiples of 3, such as every third day.

  • Arranging items for games or classroom activities in groups of 3.

These skip counting by 3 examples show how this method is useful for both mathematics and everyday life.

Also Read: Backward Counting

Improve Math Skills and Confidence with PW CuriousJr’s Mental Maths Program

PW CuriousJr’s Mental Maths Classes is designed to help students sharpen calculation skills, increase accuracy, and gain confidence in solving math problems. The program is carefully structured to cover all essential math topics step by step, making learning clear, simple, and effective.

The focus is on mental math techniques, allowing students to solve problems quickly in their minds. Lessons are interactive, engaging, and easy to follow, encouraging regular practice without stress or fear of mistakes.

Students strengthen their understanding of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division while learning clever tricks and shortcuts to solve problems faster. With consistent practice, learners develop faster thinking, improved school performance, and stronger problem-solving confidence.

PW CuriousJr’s student-friendly and enjoyable approach makes math fun and stress-free. It’s ideal for learners who want to increase their math speed, develop logical thinking, and feel confident in everyday calculations.

 

Skip Counting by 3 FAQ

How do you skip count by 3?

Begin with a number (typically 0 or 3) and continue adding (or subtracting) 3 to count forward or count backward respectively.

What does skip count by 3 mean?

It involves counting in a 3 steps as opposed to counting in one step. Example: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 …

What is the way you teach a child to count by 3?

You can teach a child counting by 3 by using a skip counting by 3 chart and number line, counting forward and backwards and use real objects to learn counting by 3.

What is the importance of counting by 3?

It teaches children how to multiply numbers by 3, develops number sense, enhances pattern recognition, and gives children a jump-start in multiplication and division.

Is it possible to use skip counting by 3 in real life?

Yes. 3- Skip counting is applied in counting money, organizing things, organizing events or any other scenario where grouping into 3s is advantageous.
Curious Jr By PW

Curious Jr By PW

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