Maths challenge questions for 11+ preparation
21 October 2026
Why maths challenge questions matter
Challenging maths questions are a key part of preparing for the 11+ exam. They help children think flexibly, spot patterns and develop strong problem-solving skills.
Building confidence through practice
Tackling tricky questions can feel daunting at first. But with regular practice, children learn to break problems into smaller steps and grow in confidence.
Worked example
What is the value of x if 3x + 5 = 20
First, subtract 5 from both sides: 3x + 5 - 5 = 20 - 5
This gives 3x = 15
Next, divide both sides by 3: 3x ÷ 3 = 15 ÷ 3
So x = 5
The correct answer is 5.
How to support your child
Encourage your child to explain each step as they solve a problem. This helps them understand the reasoning and spot any mistakes before moving on.
Regular practice makes a difference
Working through a variety of challenge questions, not just the easy ones, prepares children for anything the 11+ might include. Over time, this builds both skill and self-belief.
Key insight: Challenging maths questions develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for 11+ success.
