11+ Fractions
Fractions appear in almost every 11+ Maths paper, both directly and inside word problems. Mastering common denominators and simplifying is high-value revision.
A fraction describes part of a whole: the bottom number (denominator) is how many equal parts the whole is split into, and the top number (numerator) is how many of those parts you have.
To add or subtract fractions, first make the denominators the same by finding a common denominator, then add or subtract the numerators only — never the denominators. To compare fractions, convert them to the same denominator (or to decimals) and compare the numerators.
Always simplify your final answer by dividing the numerator and denominator by their highest common factor. In the 11+, an unsimplified answer is often not among the multiple-choice options, which is a useful self-check.
Worked examples
Q. Work out 2/3 + 1/4.
The lowest common denominator of 3 and 4 is 12. Convert: 2/3 = 8/12 and 1/4 = 3/12. Add the numerators: 8/12 + 3/12 = 11/12. It cannot be simplified, so the answer is 11/12.
Q. Which is larger, 3/5 or 5/8?
Common denominator of 5 and 8 is 40. 3/5 = 24/40 and 5/8 = 25/40. Since 25 > 24, 5/8 is larger.
Common mistakes
- Adding the denominators together (2/3 + 1/4 is not 3/7).
- Forgetting to simplify the final fraction.
- Comparing fractions by numerator alone without matching denominators first.
FAQs
Do 11+ papers allow calculators for fractions?+
No — 11+ Maths is done without a calculator, so fluency with mental and written fraction methods is essential.
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