Word problems (11+)
Multi-step problems mixing money, time, fractions and ratio. Read carefully; identify what's being asked.
11+ word problems usually combine 2-3 steps. Common: a percentage applied to a fraction of a total; rates problems with two speeds; share-out with constraints.
Worked examples
Sarah has £120. She spends 25% on a bike, then half the rest on books. How much left? 120 × 0.75 = 90; 90 / 2 = 45. Answer: £45.
Train at 60 mph for 2 hours, then 80 mph for 1 hour. Total distance? 120 + 80 = 200 miles.
3 tins paint 12 m². How many tins for 28 m²? 28 / 4 = 7 tins (round up since you can't buy a fraction of a tin).
Frequently asked questions
Read twice?
Yes. The first read for context; the second to extract numbers and the question being asked. Saves wrong answers.
Common trap?
‘How much left’ vs ‘how much spent’ — misreading reverses the answer.