Converting numbers in Roman numerals: step-by-step example
22 October 2026
Roman numerals are a different way of writing numbers, using letters like I, V, X, L, C, D and M. Learning how to read and write these helps with 11+ maths and is often seen in questions. Let's look at a clear example of how to convert a normal number into Roman numerals.
Worked example
Convert 24 to Roman numerals.
Step 1: Break 24 into 20 + 4.
Step 2: 20 is XX in Roman numerals.
Step 3: 4 is IV in Roman numerals.
Step 4: Put them together: XX + IV = XXIV.
The correct answer is XXIV.
| Step | Value | Roman Numeral |
|---|---|---|
| Break 24 | 20 + 4 | |
| 20 | 20 | XX |
| 4 | 4 | IV |
| Put together | 20 + 4 | XXIV |
Now your child can spot how to break a number into parts and match each to the right Roman numeral. This builds confidence for similar questions in 11+ practice, just like those found on maths.com uk and in our worksheets.
