Two-step function machines: worked example
22 October 2026
Two-step function machines can look tricky at first, but they follow a clear order. Your child will see a number go through two operations, one after the other. This worked example shows each stage, so you can talk through the process together.
Worked example
Start number: 6 First step: Add 2 Second step: Multiply by 5
6 + 2 = 8 8 × 5 = 40
The correct answer is 40.
Now your child can spot each step in a two-step function machine and follow the order from start to finish. The next questions in our 11+ Maths: Understanding Function Machines section give them a chance to practise this same type of problem, building confidence for the real test. Key insight: breaking the problem into clear steps helps children see how function machines work, making maths.com uk style questions much easier to handle.
