Direct proportion tables: step-by-step example
27 October 2026
Direct proportion tables are a simple way to show how two things change together. If one amount increases, the other does too, always by the same rate. This helps children see the link clearly and solve questions step by step.
Worked example
A recipe uses 2 eggs to make 4 pancakes. How many eggs are needed to make 10 pancakes?
Step 1: Write the numbers in a table.
Pancakes: 4 10
Eggs: 2?
Step 2: Find the number of eggs for 1 pancake. 2 ÷ 4 = 0.5 eggs per pancake.
Step 3: Multiply by the number of pancakes you want. 10 × 0.5 = 5 eggs.
Key insight: In direct proportion, the amount goes up in equal steps for both things.
The answer is 5 eggs.
| Pancakes | Eggs |
|---|---|
| 4 | 2 |
| 10 |
After working through this example, your child will recognise how to use a table to spot the pattern in direct proportion problems. They will be ready to practise similar questions and build their confidence with this type of maths.
