Top 8 Maths Tricks Every 11 Plus Student Should Know

This will not be an easy 11 plus maths section, but students can save time and work on problems confidently. Here are the top 8 essential maths tricks that will sharpen your skills and help you do better on the exam.

The Rule of Zero for Multiplication

The answer will always be zero if any number is multiplied by zero. This can seem simple, but quickly recognising this in a test can save precious seconds. For instance, a series of multiplications such as “5 × 3 × 0 × 7” can be identified directly as zero without performing the entire series.

Doubling and Halving Strategy

• For multiplication, doubling one number and halving the other makes calculations easier. For example:
• Instead of calculating 25 × 16, change it to 50 × 8 and get more easily computable mentally:

Squaring Numbers Ending in 5

To easily square a number ending in 5:

1. Multiply the first digit by the next whole number.
2. Add 25 to the result.

Example: To compute 25², multiply 2 × 3 = 6, then add 25, which comes out to be 625.

Simplifying Fractions with Prime Factorisation

Break both the numerator and denominator into prime factors to simplify fractions fast. For instance:

• Simplify 36/48 by factorisation. 36 = 2² × 3², 48 = 2⁴ × 3.
• Cancel common factors to have 3/4.

The Cross-Multiplication Method for Comparing Fractions

To compare fractions:

1. Multiply diagonally.
2. Compare the results.
3. For 3/4 and 5/6: Cross-multiplying gives us 3 × 6 = 18 and 5 × 4 = 20. Since 20 is greater than 18, 5/6 is larger.

Estimation Using Rounding

Round numbers to facilitate calculations and estimate answers. As an illustration:

• Estimate 49 × 51 by rounding to 50 × 50 = 2500.
• This method is especially helpful in the case of multiple-choice questions.

Reverse Operations for Verification

Use reverse operations to check answers. For example:

• If you subtract 23 from 50 to get 27, verify by adding 27 + 23 to see if it equals 50.

The Power of Patterns in Arithmetic Sequences

Identifying patterns can often make sequences easier to solve. For example:

• If a sequence goes like this: 2,4,8,16, Recognise that sequence as the powers of two (2¹, 2², 2³, 2⁴).
• This helps predict future terms efficiently.

Conclusion

Maths doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Mastering these tricks will help students do problems faster, with increased confidence and accuracy in the 11 Plus exam. For those who want to take their preparation to another level, Aviator’s 11 Plus Maths Tuitions for Year 4 and Year 5 are the perfect solution for building strong mathematical foundations for success. Let us look into the Aviator expert-led sessions and resources so your child can better face competition.