You may have learned your times tables by it

ROTE

This method relies on repetition rather than understanding, often used for memorizing lists or sequences without deeper meaning.

The clue hints at memorizing something through repetition, which is how many people learn multiplication tables. "Rote" means learning by repeating information over and over until it sticks, without necessarily understanding it deeply. It’s a straightforward definition—no wordplay or tricks here—just a nod to how basic math is often taught.