Recognising Percentage Increase and Decrease: Calm Guidance for 11+ Maths
19 October 2026
Understanding percentage increase and decrease
Percentage increase and decrease is a key part of the 11+ Maths syllabus. It involves recognising when a quantity has grown or shrunk, and by how much, in percentage terms. This skill is often tested in both straightforward calculations and word problems.
How to spot an increase or decrease
To recognise a percentage increase, look for questions where a value becomes larger. For a decrease, the value will get smaller. Children need to compare the starting value with the new value, then decide if it is an increase or a decrease.
Calculating the percentage change
The basic method is to find the difference between the starting and final values, divide this by the original amount, and then multiply by 100. This tells you the percentage increase or decrease. For example, if a number goes from 40 to 50, the increase is 10. 10 divided by 40, times 100, gives a 25% increase.
Key insight: Practising with real numbers helps children build confidence. Start with small, simple amounts before moving to larger or trickier numbers. Encourage your child to talk through each step as they work.
Using worksheets for steady progress
Interactive worksheets on percentage increase and decrease give children the chance to practise these steps in a calm, structured way. Look for worksheets that include clear solutions, so your child can check their working and understand any mistakes.
Building 11+ confidence
Regular practice with percentage increase and decrease questions helps children become more comfortable with this topic. Over time, they will recognise patterns and apply the same thinking to different types of problems, including those in worded form.
