Numb3rs - Continued

On another note, I won't try to assume claims based on mere theory here, but I very strongly believe that the stereotypical Chinese reputation for excellence in mathematics has some sort of connection with the efficiency of the numbering system. It is simple and directly to-the-point.

In another example, when Chinese children learn their multiplication tables in school, it does not translate to "5 times 8 is 40," but rather "5-8-is-40," and often simply even "5-8-40." Not only that, but with the typical system, there is also an inherent rhythm that is difficult to understand as someone who has not learned Chinese numbers, but has an almost unstoppably smooth and unbroken flow to it. So if you can imagine reciting the entire multiplication table in the format of, "2-4-is-8, 3-4-12, 4-4-16, 4-5-20, 4-6-24...," it's no wonder you would pick up a natural speed. And not only would you be faster, but you would have already raised the standard speed from, say, multiplication recitation in many other languages.

And there's just my two cents on counting in languages.