The 11 Plus Maths exam typically assesses your child’s understanding of number and place value, the four operations, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratio, algebra, measurement, geometry, statistics and mathematical reasoning. Most questions are based on the Key Stage 2 curriculum, although some grammar schools include more challenging problem-solving and reasoning 11 Plus Maths topics to assess a child’s ability to apply their mathematical knowledge. Read our guide on what is on the 11 Plus exams.
11 Plus Maths Topics at a Glance
| Topic | Skills Your Child Should Develop |
| Number & Place Value | Reading, comparing, ordering and rounding numbers |
| Four Operations | Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division |
| Fractions, Decimals & Percentages | Converting, calculating and comparing values |
| Ratio & Proportion | Simple ratios and proportional reasoning |
| Algebra | Solving simple equations and recognising patterns |
| Measurement | Length, area, volume, perimeter, time and unit conversions |
| Geometry | Angles, shapes, symmetry, coordinates and transformations |
| Statistics | Reading charts, graphs and tables |
| Mathematical Reasoning | Multi-step problem-solving and logical thinking |
Understanding the 11 Plus Maths Curriculum
A strong understanding of the 11 Plus Maths curriculum helps children approach the exam with greater confidence. While the exact content varies slightly between grammar schools and exam providers, most 11 Plus Maths topics are based on the Key Stage 2 National Curriculum and test both mathematical knowledge and reasoning skills.
The aim of the 11 Plus Maths exam is not simply to assess whether a child can complete calculations. Questions are designed to measure how well they apply mathematical concepts, solve unfamiliar problems and work accurately under timed conditions.
Many grammar schools use GL Assessment multiple-choice papers, while some independent schools set their own written Maths papers. Regardless of the format, children who practise a wide range of 11 Plus Maths topics are better prepared to tackle different question styles and build confidence before exam day.
The following guide explains the key areas your child should revise and the skills they should develop during their 11 Plus Maths preparation.
Complete 11 Plus Maths Topics
Number and Place Value
Number and place value is one of the first 11 Plus Maths topics children should master. It develops number confidence and supports many other areas of the 11 Plus Maths curriculum.
Your child should be able to:
- Read, write and compare whole numbers.
- Order numbers correctly.
- Round numbers to the nearest 10, 100 and 1,000.
- Understand positive and negative numbers.
- Identify the value of each digit.
| Example question: Round 48,673 to the nearest 1,000. |
Four Operations
Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division appear throughout the 11 Plus Maths exam. Many questions combine two or more operations, making accuracy and method equally important.
Your child should be able to:
- Add and subtract large numbers.
- Multiply and divide confidently.
- Identify multiples and factors.
- Recognise square and cube numbers.
- Solve multi-step calculations.
| Example question: Calculate: 468 ÷ 6 + 25 |
Fractions, Decimals and Percentages
Fractions, decimals and percentages are among the most frequently tested 11 Plus Maths topics. Children should understand how these concepts connect and when to apply each method.
Your child should be able to:
- Convert between fractions, decimals and percentages.
- Add and subtract fractions.
- Calculate percentages of quantities.
- Compare fractions and decimals.
- Round decimal numbers accurately.
| Example question: What is 25% of 160? |
Ratio and Proportion
Ratio questions assess a child’s ability to compare quantities and solve proportional problems using logical thinking.
Your child should be able to:
- Simplify ratios.
- Divide quantities into a ratio.
- Solve simple proportion problems.
- Recognise equivalent ratios.
- Apply ratio to everyday situations.
| Example question: Share £48 in the ratio 5:3. |
Algebra
Algebra in the 11 Plus Maths curriculum introduces simple equations and number patterns. Most questions focus on reasoning rather than advanced algebra.
Your child should be able to:
- Solve simple equations.
- Find missing values.
- Complete number sequences.
- Recognise mathematical patterns.
- Apply logical reasoning.
| Example question: If x + 9 = 21, what is x? |
Measurement
Measurement questions assess how well children apply maths to everyday situations, including length, time, area and unit conversions.
Your child should be able to:
- Convert between units.
- Calculate perimeter, area and volume.
- Read scales and timetables.
- Solve problems involving money and time.
- Estimate and compare measurements.
| Example question: A ribbon is 3 metres long. How many centimetres is this? |
Geometry
Geometry tests a child’s understanding of shapes, angles and spatial reasoning. Many questions require logical thinking rather than memorisation.
Your child should be able to:
- Identify 2D and 3D shapes.
- Recognise different types of angles.
- Calculate missing angles.
- Understand symmetry and reflections.
- Read simple coordinates.
| Example question: A triangle has two angles of 45° and 65°. What is the third angle? |
Statistics
Statistics questions assess how well children interpret information presented in charts, graphs and tables.
Your child should be able to:
- Read charts and graphs.
- Compare and interpret data.
- Calculate the mean, median and mode.
- Identify trends and patterns.
- Draw conclusions from data.
| Example question: A chart shows 18 children chose football and 12 chose swimming. How many more children chose football? |
Mathematical Reasoning
Mathematical reasoning is assessed throughout the 11 Plus Maths exam. Children must apply their knowledge to solve unfamiliar problems accurately and logically.
Your child should be able to:
- Solve multi-step problems.
- Recognise number and shape patterns.
- Select the best solving strategy.
- Explain mathematical reasoning.
- Work confidently under timed conditions.
| Example question: Find the missing number: 4, 8, 16, 32, __ |
Which 11 Plus Maths Topics Do Children Find Most Challenging?
Every child has different strengths, but some 11 Plus Maths topics consistently cause more difficulty than others. These questions often require more than accurate calculations—they test problem-solving, reasoning and the ability to apply mathematical knowledge under timed conditions.
Fractions, Decimals and Percentages
Many children understand each topic individually but struggle to convert between fractions, decimals and percentages quickly and accurately.
How to improve:
- Practise converting between all three forms.
- Use real-life examples, such as discounts and money.
- Revise equivalent fractions regularly.
- Complete timed practice questions.
Multi-Step Word Problems
Word problems assess reading comprehension as well as mathematical ability. Children must identify the relevant information before deciding which method to use.
How to improve:
- Read each question carefully before calculating.
- Highlight key numbers and important information.
- Break complex questions into smaller steps.
- Encourage children to check whether their answer is reasonable.
Algebra
Algebra is often a new concept for Year 5 pupils, so many children lack confidence when solving simple equations or identifying patterns.
How to improve:
- Start with basic missing-number questions.
- Practise recognising number sequences.
- Use simple equations before introducing more challenging problems.
- Encourage logical thinking rather than memorising rules.
How to Help Your Child Prepare for the 11 Plus Maths Exam
Success in the 11 Plus Maths exam comes from consistent practice rather than last-minute revision. A structured routine helps children strengthen weaker topics, improve exam technique and build confidence before test day.
Help your child prepare by:
- Following a weekly revision timetable.
- Revising one 11 Plus Maths topic at a time.
- Completing regular 11 Plus Maths practice using past papers and mock exams.
- Reviewing mistakes to identify learning gaps.
- Practising under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
- Encouraging short, consistent revision sessions instead of long study periods.
If your child is finding certain 11 Plus Maths topics more challenging than others, personalised support can make a real difference. Our experienced tutors identify learning gaps, build confidence and provide structured one-to-one lessons tailored to your child’s target grammar schools.
Book a free assessment to discuss your child’s Maths preparation.
Call us on 07961 536 224 and we will help you with your queries.