11+ long multiplication practice made simple
21 October 2026
Why long multiplication matters
Long multiplication is an essential skill for the 11+ maths exam. Children often meet it in multi-step problems, so confidence and accuracy are vital.
Setting up the calculation
Write the larger number on top and the smaller number underneath, aligning the digits to the right.
Multiply by the units digit
Take the units digit of the bottom number and multiply it by each digit of the top number, working from right to left. Write this answer on the first line.
Multiply by the tens digit
Now multiply the tens digit of the bottom number by each digit of the top number. Start this answer one place to the left, as it represents tens.
Add the results
Add the two lines together to find the final answer.
Worked example
23 × 47
Write 47 on top and 23 underneath, aligning the digits.
Multiply 3 (units) by 47:
3 × 7 = 21. Write 1, carry 2.
3 × 4 = 12. 12 + 2 = 14. Write 14. The first line is 141.
Multiply 2 (tens) by 47:
2 × 7 = 14. Write 4, carry 1.
2 × 4 = 8. 8 + 1 = 9. Write 9. As this is tens, write 940 (shifted one place left).
Add the results: 141 + 940 = 1081
The correct answer is 1081.
Encouragement for practice
Regular practice helps children recognise when to use long multiplication and avoid small mistakes. Work through examples together to build confidence.
Key insight: Mastery of long multiplication helps children tackle multi-step 11+ problems with speed and accuracy, giving them confidence under exam conditions.
