Some children write every multiplication step. Others try to do the entire paper mentally because they think written working is slow. In 11+ Maths, the best approach is neither “write everything” nor “write nothing”. It is to record enough to think accurately and check efficiently.
The exact answer requirements depend on the test. Multiple-choice papers may only score the selected option, while some bespoke or written formats expect responses on the paper. Always check the official instructions for the exam your child will sit.
Working is mainly for the child
Even where working does not earn method marks, it can prevent mistakes. A short written calculation reduces the load on working memory and gives the child something to check.
For example, in a multi-step money problem, writing two intermediate totals can be faster than trying to hold every number mentally and then restarting after one distraction.
When mental maths is efficient
Mental calculation is ideal when the method is genuinely automatic: simple number facts, easy percentages, known fraction equivalents or short arithmetic that can be done reliably.
The key word is reliably. If mental working causes frequent slips, the apparent speed advantage disappears.
When working should appear on the page
Encourage written steps for:
Practise these question types one at a time so the written method becomes automatic before the clock is added. maths revision hub
- long multiplication or division when needed;
- multi-step word problems;
- fraction calculations with several stages;
- unit conversions;
- algebra-style missing-number problems;
- geometry where values need combining;
- any calculation the child regularly gets wrong mentally.
The working can be compact. It does not need to look like a school exercise-book model answer.
Label units at important steps
Minutes, centimetres, pounds, litres and square units are common sources of avoidable mistakes. Writing a unit beside an intermediate answer can prevent a child from adding metres to centimetres or treating area as a simple length.
Use the page as an external memory
Cross out irrelevant numbers in a word problem, underline what is being asked, and jot a tiny plan such as “total → divide by 4”. These are not signs that the child is weak. They are efficient problem-solving habits.
Avoid decorative overworking
Some pupils lose time writing full sentences or copying the entire question. Practice should help them discover the minimum useful record.
Ask after a mock: Which written steps helped you? Which took time without reducing mistakes?
Multiple-choice still needs checking
Even if only the final option is marked, written working allows estimation and reverse checking. If the calculated answer is 3.6 but the selected option corresponds to 36, the child has a chance to catch the transfer error.
Practise both method and pace
EduArchives Maths worksheets let children build reliable methods before those methods are placed under full mock timing.
Frequently asked questions
Do you get method marks in GL-style multiple-choice 11+ Maths?
Multiple-choice tests generally mark the selected response rather than awarding traditional written method marks, but check the current exam guidance for your test.
Is mental maths important for the 11+?
Yes. Fluency saves time, but children should still write working when it improves accuracy.
Should we erase rough working?
Usually rough working is there to help the child. Follow any specific instructions on the test paper, but do not waste time making scratch work look beautiful.