Number analogies: 11 Plus verbal reasoning practice
Find the rule that links pairs of numbers.
OftenIn many papers, especially GL AssessmentAbout 35 seconds a question in the test
The big idea
Each pair follows the same rule (e.g. ×3, double and add 1, square). Test your idea on every pair before answering.
Tips that save marks
Start with the simplest rules: +, −, ×, ÷.
Try two-step rules if one step fails.
Now try five
Try each one before you look at the answer: answering from memory is what makes it stick. Tap an option to check it. Most children get three or four right at first; five out of five means move on to the next topic.
Question 1Aim for about 35 seconds
The same rule changes each number on the left into the number on the right. What is missing?
7 → 49 6 → 36 3 → ?
Show the worked answer
Answer: C, 9
How to work it out
Find a rule that works for both pairs: “square it”.
Apply it to 3: 9.
Question 2Aim for about 35 seconds
The same rule changes each number on the left into the number on the right. What is missing?
2 → 4 4 → 16 8 → ?
Show the worked answer
Answer: B, 64
How to work it out
Find a rule that works for both pairs: “square it”.
Apply it to 8: 64.
Question 3Aim for about 35 seconds
The same rule changes each number on the left into the number on the right. What is missing?
11 → 18 6 → 13 7 → ?
Show the worked answer
Answer: C, 14
How to work it out
Find a rule that works for both pairs: “add 7”.
Apply it to 7: 14.
Question 4Aim for about 35 seconds
The same rule changes each number on the left into the number on the right. What is missing?
7 → 26 5 → 18 11 → ?
Show the worked answer
Answer: D, 42
How to work it out
Find a rule that works for both pairs: “multiply by 4 then take away 2”.
Apply it to 11: 42.
Question 5Aim for about 35 seconds
The same rule changes each number on the left into the number on the right. What is missing?
8 → 24 5 → 15 11 → ?
Show the worked answer
Answer: E, 33
How to work it out
Find a rule that works for both pairs: “multiply by 3”.
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