11 Plus Maths Topics: Complete Checklist
Preparing for the 11 plus exam can feel challenging for both students and parents. One of the first steps to successful preparation is understanding the maths topics that commonly appear in the exam.
The 11 plus maths section tests a wide range of skills, from basic number operations to problem solving and data interpretation. Knowing the full list of topics helps students organise their revision and focus on the areas that matter most.
In this guide, we provide a complete checklist of 11 plus maths topics, along with examples and explanations to help students understand what they need to practise before the exam.
Why understanding 11 plus maths topics matters
The maths section of the 11 plus exam tests more than just basic calculations. It assesses a child’s ability to solve problems, apply logic, and work accurately under time pressure.
A clear 11 plus maths topic list helps students:
Identify strengths and weaknesses
Structure revision effectively
Practise 11 plus maths topic wise questions
Build confidence before the exam
Many grammar school entrance exams include a wide range of maths concepts, so having a clear checklist ensures nothing important is missed.
Complete 11 plus maths topic list
Below is a detailed 11 plus exam maths topics checklist commonly covered in grammar school entrance exams. Understanding these 11 plus maths topics will help students prepare more effectively.
1. Number and Place Value
This forms the foundation of most maths questions.
Students should understand:
Reading and writing large numbers
Place value and digit value
Comparing and ordering numbers
Rounding numbers
Strong number sense is essential because many problem-solving questions rely on these skills.
Example Question: What is the value of the digit 7 in the number 4,782?
Answer: The digit 7 represents 700.
2. Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division
Children must be confident with the four core operations. They should practise both mental maths and written methods.
Key areas include:
Long multiplication
Long division
Multi-step calculations
Word problems involving operations
Practising 11 plus maths topic wise questions in these areas can significantly improve speed and accuracy.
Example Question: A school library has 248 books. It buys 175 more books. How many books does the library have in total?
Answer: 248 + 175 = 423 books
3. Fractions, Decimals and Percentages
This is one of the most important areas in the 11 plus maths exam.
Students should be able to:
Add and subtract fractions
Convert fractions to decimals
Convert decimals to percentages
Solve percentage problems
These topics often appear in multi-step exam questions.
Example Question: Convert 0.75 into a percentage.
Answer: 0.75 × 100 = 75%
4. Ratios and Proportions
Ratio questions test logical thinking and understanding of relationships between quantities.
Students should practise:
Simplifying ratios
Dividing quantities in ratios
Solving ratio word problems
These questions frequently appear in grammar school entrance tests.
Example Question: Simplify the ratio 12:18
Answer: Divide both numbers by 6
12 : 18 = 2 : 3
5. Factors, Multiples and Prime Numbers
Understanding number properties helps students solve more advanced questions.
Important concepts include:
Prime numbers
Factors and multiples
Lowest common multiple (LCM)
Highest common factor (HCF)
Example Question: What are the factors of 24?
Answer: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24
6. Algebra Basics
Although algebra is introduced at a basic level, students should still be comfortable with simple expressions.
Topics may include:
Using symbols to represent numbers
Solving simple equations
Understanding number patterns
Algebra helps students develop strong problem-solving skills.
Example Question: Solve the equation: x + 7 = 15
Answer: x = 8
7. Geometry and Shapes
Geometry questions test spatial understanding and mathematical reasoning.
Students should know:
Properties of 2D shapes
Properties of 3D shapes
Angles and angle rules
Symmetry and reflections
These topics are often included in 11 plus exam across different exam boards.
Example Question: How many degrees are there in a right angle?
Answer: 90°
8. Measurement
Measurement questions check whether students can apply maths to real-life situations.
Important areas include:
Length, weight and capacity
Perimeter and area
Time calculations
Converting units of measurement
These questions often appear in practical problem-solving scenarios.
Example Question: Convert 2.5 metres into centimetres.
Answer: 2.5 × 100 = 250 cm
9. Data Handling
Data interpretation is another common part of the 11 plus maths topics.
Students should practise reading:
Tables
Bar charts
Line graphs
Pie charts
Questions may ask students to interpret data or perform calculations based on the information provided.
Example Question: A bar chart shows that 20 students like football, 15 like cricket, and 10 like tennis. How many students were surveyed in total?
Answer: 20 + 15 + 10 = 45 students
10. Word Problems and Problem Solving
Many 11 plus maths questions are presented as word problems. These require students to apply multiple concepts at once.
Students should practise:
Multi-step problems
Logical reasoning questions
Interpreting complex instructions
Developing strong problem-solving skills is essential for success in the exam.
Example Question: A train travels 60 miles in one hour. How far will it travel in 3 hours?
Answer: 60 × 3 = 180 miles
How to practise 11 plus maths topics effectively.
Effective preparation strategies include:
Practising 11 plus maths topic-wise questions regularly
Taking timed mock tests
Reviewing mistakes and learning from them
Building strong mental maths skills
Mock exams are particularly useful because they help students experience the real exam environment.
You can explore our realistic 11 Plus Mocks, where students can practise under exam conditions and understand the format commonly used in grammar school entrance tests.
For students who prefer remote preparation, our 11 Plus Online Mock Exams provide a flexible way to practise at home while building confidence before the real exam.
These mocks help students become familiar with exam formats and improve their time management skills.
Final thoughts
If your child is preparing for the 11 plus exam and needs expert support, structured guidance can make a significant difference.
At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, we provide experienced tutoring and realistic mock exams to help students succeed in grammar school entrance tests.
To learn more about our courses, mock exams, and preparation programmes, Contact Us today to discuss how we can support your child’s 11 plus preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What maths topics are in the 11+ exam?
The 11 plus exam maths topics usually include number operations, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data interpretation.
What age do children take the 11 plus maths exam?
Most children take the 11 plus exam when they are in Year 6, usually at 10 or 11 years old.
Is the 11 plus maths exam difficult for children?
Yes, the 11 plus maths exam is generally considered challenging for many children. This is because it requires students to apply their Key Stage 2 maths knowledge more quickly and at a deeper level than they usually do in primary school.
Jag Singh
Founder, Pass 11 Plus Grammar
Mr Singh is the founder of Pass 11 Plus Grammar, with over 30 years of teaching experience. Having overcome academic setbacks himself, he is passionate about ensuring no child struggles alone. His approach focuses on personalised support, strong foundations, and building confidence. He has helped students achieve outstanding results in 11+ and GCSE examinations
