Let's say for example, you were solving 6x8. This is a problem I solved in school at Connections Academy.
This strategy only works on even first factors.
1. switch your 6x8 around to 8x6.
2. 6+6=12, and there are 4 groups of 12 in 8x6, so turn 8x6 to 4x12.
3. Solve 4x12.
4.(Don't do this step if it's a mental math lesson.) Use paper and pencil and write 12+12+12+12.
Now I'm not going to tell the answer to the problem because that's cheating.
Now the lecture is done.
