Problem Solving & Word Problems
Problem solving and word problems help you apply your maths knowledge to real-life situations. These questions test your ability to understand a scenario, reason through it, and perform accurate calculations.
🧩 5 Steps to Solve Any Word Problem:
- Read & Identify: Read the problem twice. What exactly is the question asking for?
- Hunt for Clues: Highlight key numbers and "trigger words" (e.g., total, difference, share).
- Choose a Strategy: Decide which concept to use (e.g., bar modelling, fractions, or a specific formula).
- Solve Step-by-Step: Show all your working clearly. Don't try to do it all in your head!
- The "Sense Check": Look at your answer. Does it actually make sense in the context of the story?
🔢 Example: Scaling a Recipe
"A recipe needs 3 eggs for 4 people. How many eggs are needed for 12 people?"
Method A: Unitary
Find for 1 person: 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75 eggs.
Multiply for 12: 0.75 × 12 = 9 eggs.
Method B: Scaling
12 people is 3x more than 4 people.
So, 3 eggs × 3 = 9 eggs.
Pro Tip: Look for units! If the question gives you meters but asks for centimeters, convert before you start your main calculation.
✅ Practising word problems regularly will improve your speed and confidence, helping you tackle even the trickiest 11+ exam questions.
Practice Papers
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