Multiplying and Dividing Negative Numbers for 11+ Maths
21 October 2026
Multiplying and dividing negative numbers
Understanding how to multiply and divide negative numbers is an important skill for the 11+ Maths exam. Many children find these questions tricky at first, but a few simple rules make all the difference.
Key insight: The sign rules
When multiplying or dividing two numbers with the same sign (both positive or both negative), the answer is positive. If the numbers have different signs (one positive, one negative), the answer is negative.
Worked example: multiplying negative numbers
-3 × 4
Step 1: Look at the signs. One number is negative, the other is positive.
Step 2: Multiply the numbers as usual. 3 × 4 = 12
Step 3: Decide the sign. Different signs mean the answer is negative.
The correct answer is -12.
Worked example: dividing negative numbers
-12 ÷ -3
Step 1: Look at the signs. Both numbers are negative.
Step 2: Divide as usual. 12 ÷ 3 = 4
Step 3: Decide the sign. Same signs mean the answer is positive.
The correct answer is 4.
Supporting your child
Encourage your child to say the rules out loud and check the signs before working out the answer. Practising with a mix of positive and negative numbers helps build confidence for exam questions.
