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Maths 4 min read · 2025-12-03

Ratio and Proportion for the 11+

Ratio questions look intimidating but follow predictable patterns. Here are the patterns and the tricks.

Ratio questions are some of the most consistently misread on the 11+ — children rush them when the structure is actually quite friendly.

What "ratio" really means

A 2:3 ratio means "two of these for every three of those". For every group of 5 (2+3), 2 are one kind and 3 are the other.

The "find the part" method

"Share £30 in the ratio 2:3." Total parts = 5. Each part = 30 ÷ 5 = £6. First share = 2 × £6 = £12. Second share = 3 × £6 = £18. Practice now on ratio questions.

Recipe-style proportion

"5 oranges make 400ml of juice; how much do 8 oranges make?" Work out per-orange (400 ÷ 5 = 80ml), then multiply (80 × 8 = 640ml). Always go via the unit.

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