What it tests
Most 11 Plus Maths questions sit within the Key Stage 2 curriculum, so there is rarely anything truly unfamiliar. The challenge is reading each question carefully, choosing the right method and working quickly without slips.
- Arithmetic with the four operations, including mental methods
- Fractions, decimals and percentages, and converting between them
- Ratio, proportion and simple algebra or sequences
- Measures, money, time, perimeter, area and basic geometry
- Reading and interpreting tables, charts and other data
- Multi-step word problems that combine several skills
Common question types
Depending on your region, papers are either multiple choice or short answer, and some mix both. Word problems are the part children find hardest, because they have to translate a sentence into a calculation before they can solve it.
Data questions are common too, asking children to pull a value from a chart or table and then use it in a further step.
How to improve
Secure number bonds and times tables come first, because fluent arithmetic frees up thinking time for the harder problems. From there, regular practice with mixed topics builds the flexibility the paper rewards.
Work through our free Maths practice at /resources/maths to cover the core topics, then move to full timed papers so your child gets used to the pace and learns to check work before moving on.
See where your child stands
Book a live 11 Plus mock exam and get a standardised score, section breakdown and UK-wide ranking. Your first mock is free.