How to Read and Write Numbers up to 10 Million for 11+
21 October 2026
Reading and writing large numbers
Understanding how to read and write numbers up to 10 million is a key skill for the 11+ maths exam. This helps children work confidently with big numbers in different types of questions.
Breaking down large numbers
When reading or writing large numbers, it helps to split them into groups. Start from the right and group the digits into units, thousands, and millions. For example, the number 5,432,789 can be split as 5 million, 432 thousand, 789.
How to read big numbers aloud
Read each group separately. Say the millions first, then thousands, then the rest. For 5,432,789, say: five million, four hundred and thirty-two thousand, seven hundred and eighty-nine.
Writing numbers in words and digits
Practice writing numbers both ways. For example, write the number 7,060,015 as 'seven million, sixty thousand and fifteen'. Make sure to use commas to separate the groups when writing in digits.
Worked example
Let's read and write the number 5,432,789.
In digits: 5,432,789
In words: five million, four hundred and thirty-two thousand, seven hundred and eighty-nine.
The correct answer is five million, four hundred and thirty-two thousand, seven hundred and eighty-nine.
Common mistakes to avoid
Children sometimes miss out zeros or put commas in the wrong place. Remind them to check each group of digits and practise with different examples.
Key insight: Understanding the place value of each digit makes reading and writing large numbers much easier. Encourage your child to say the number aloud and check each group for accuracy.
Supporting your child at home
Give your child plenty of practice with numbers up to 10 million. Read numbers aloud together, write them in words and digits, and check their work step by step. This builds confidence for the 11+ maths exam.
