How to explain mixed 11+ word problem reasoning in word problem challenge & reasoning to your student: Example question for 11+
27 October 2026
Mixed word problem reasoning questions combine different types of maths steps in one problem. These questions help children learn how to break down information and solve each part in order.
Worked example
A box has 6 red balls and 4 blue balls. If you add 3 more red balls and then take away 2 blue balls, how many balls are in the box now?
Step 1: Start with 6 red balls and 4 blue balls.
Step 2: Add 3 red balls. 6 + 3 = 9 red balls.
Step 3: Take away 2 blue balls. 4 - 2 = 2 blue balls.
Step 4: Find the total. 9 red balls + 2 blue balls = 11 balls.
The correct answer is 11 balls.
After working through this example, your child will see how to handle questions with more than one step. They can now spot what to do first, next, and last in a mixed problem. More practice questions like this are ready to build confidence.
