Multi-step word problem: Reading and calculating time
23 October 2026
Multi-step word problems with time can seem tricky at first. It helps to break them down into smaller parts and work through each step in order. Here's an example to show how to add up different time intervals to find out when something happens.
Worked example
Sophie leaves home at 08:15. She walks to school for 25 minutes. She then spends 10 minutes talking to her friend before going inside. What time does Sophie go inside school?
Step 1: Add 25 minutes to 08:15.
08:15 + 25 minutes = 08:40
Step 2: Add 10 minutes to 08:40.
08:40 + 10 minutes = 08:50
The correct answer is 08:50.
Click or tap on the number line to answer
After seeing this example, your child will recognise how to tackle questions that involve adding minutes to a starting time, then adding on extra time again. Key insight: With practice, children become more confident at reading and calculating time in multi-step maths problems. Try a similar question next to build this skill.
