Number Connections
Number Connections is an 11+ verbal reasoning question type where a pair of numbers with a third number in brackets follows a hidden rule, such as addition or a two-step calculation, and pupils work out that rule from a first, worked pair, then apply it to a second pair to find the missing bracketed number. It appears on GL Assessment papers.
Before you start
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Method
- Look at the first pair and try the simplest rules first: does adding, subtracting, or multiplying the two outside numbers give the bracketed number?
- If a simple one-step rule does not fit, try a two-step rule, such as adding the numbers together and then multiplying by one of them.
- Write the rule down in words once you find one that works exactly for the first pair.
- Apply the exact same rule, in the exact same order, to the second pair of numbers.
- Check your calculated answer against the five options given.
- If your answer is not among the options, re-check for a two-step rule you may have missed, such as squaring one number before combining it with the other.
Worked example
4 (11) 7 | 6 (?) 9. A) 13 B) 15 C) 54 D) 17 E) 3.
- Try addition on the first pair: 4 + 7 = 11, which matches the bracketed number exactly.
- Apply the same rule, add the two outside numbers, to the second pair: 6 + 9 = 15.
- Final answer: B) 15.
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.
8 (20) 4 | 9 (?) 3. A) 15 B) 18 C) 21 D) 24 E) 30.
7 (40) 3 | 8 (?) 5. A) 13 B) 24 C) 39 D) 45 E) 65.
10 (64) 6 | 14 (?) 10. A) 24 B) 48 C) 96 D) 144 E) 288.
Free printable worksheet
Want more practice on paper? Download the number connections 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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