Letters for Numbers
Letters for numbers questions give you a key such as F=1, G=2, H=3, J=5, K=8, then ask you to work out the value of a short calculation and pick the letter whose value matches your answer. They are a regular feature of GL Assessment style 11+ verbal reasoning papers, and they test accurate arithmetic and the correct order of operations rather than reading or vocabulary skill.
Before you start
Make sure you're comfortable with these topics first:
Method
- Write down the letter-to-number key exactly as given, since one misread value spoils every answer that follows.
- Read the calculation carefully and mark any brackets, since whatever is inside brackets must be worked out first.
- Apply the order of operations: brackets first, then multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction, working left to right within each stage.
- Substitute each letter's number into the calculation and work through it one step at a time, writing down each stage of your working.
- Compare your final answer to the values in the key and pick the letter whose value matches it exactly.
- Check your answer by substituting that letter's value back into the original calculation to confirm it is correct.
Worked example
A=3, B=4, C=5, D=23, E=15. Work out A + B x C. Which letter has this value?
- Note the key: A=3, B=4, C=5, D=23, E=15.
- Apply the order of operations: multiplication comes before addition, so work out B x C first.
- B x C = 4 x 5 = 20.
- Add A to this result: A + 20 = 3 + 20 = 23.
- Compare 23 to the key: D = 23, so D matches.
- Final answer: D (value 23).
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.
K=5, L=3, M=4, N=17, P=23. Work out K + L x M. Which letter has this value? Show your working.
F=9, G=5, H=3, J=32, K=10. Work out (F + G) x H - K. Which letter has this value? Show your working.
F=5, G=3, H=8, J=6, K=46. Work out (F + G) x H - J x G. Which letter has this value? Show your working.
Free printable worksheet
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