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11+ · Topic guide

Missing Number (Balance the Equation)

Missing Number (Balance the Equation) is an 11+ verbal reasoning question type where pupils work out a missing value that makes both sides of a number sentence equal, applying the order of operations, brackets first, then multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction, without a calculator. It is a GL Assessment staple that blends arithmetic accuracy with careful reading of each side of the equation.

Year 5-6 (11+)Verbal ReasoningGL AssessmentCEM
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Before you start

Make sure you're comfortable with these topics first:

Four Operations (Worded)Early Algebra

Method

  1. Work out the value of the complete side of the equation first, the side without the missing number.
  2. Follow the order of operations exactly: brackets first, then multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction.
  3. Write down the total for the complete side before touching the side with the gap.
  4. Look at what operation is being done to the missing number on the other side, and use the inverse operation to isolate it.
  5. Solve for the missing number and check it matches one of the five options.
  6. Substitute your answer back into the original equation to check both sides are truly equal.

Worked example

6 + 9 = 8 + [ ]. A) 5 B) 7 C) 15 D) 17 E) 23.

  1. Work out the left-hand side first: 6+9=15.
  2. The right-hand side must also equal 15, so 8 + [ ] = 15.
  3. Rearrange to find the missing number: [ ] = 15 - 8 = 7.
  4. Final answer: B) 7.

Practice questions

Try each question, then tap to reveal the answer.

Exam-style questions

Written in the style of a 11+ exam paper, with a full mark scheme.

Q1[2 marks]

7 x 6 = 30 + [ ]. A) 2 B) 6 C) 12 D) 42 E) 36.

Q2[3 marks]

(8 - 3) x (2 + 4) = [ ] x 5. A) 3 B) 5 C) 6 D) 30 E) 150.

Q3[2 marks]

(2/5) x 30 = [ ] - 4. A) 8 B) 12 C) 16 D) 20 E) 26.

Free printable worksheet

Want more practice on paper? Download the missing number (balance the equation) worksheet pack - 9 pages of exam-style questions with a full mark scheme. No sign-up, no email wall - just the PDF, free for personal and classroom use.

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Next topics

Number SeriesNumber ConnectionsLogic Deduction

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