11 plus negative numbers multiply divide practice
21 October 2026
Why practise multiplying and dividing negative numbers
Understanding how to multiply and divide negative numbers is a key skill for the 11+ maths exam. These questions test logic and careful calculation, and often appear in word problems or when working with graphs and temperature changes.
Rules for multiplying and dividing negative numbers
There are three main rules to remember:
- Negative × Positive = Negative
- Positive ÷ Negative = Negative
- Negative × Negative = Positive
Worked example: multiplying a negative by a positive
Step 1: -3 × 4
The sign is negative × positive, so the answer will be negative. Multiply the numbers as normal: 3 × 4 = 12. The result is -12.
Worked example: dividing a positive by a negative
Step 2: 6 ÷ -2
Positive divided by negative gives a negative answer. Divide the numbers: 6 ÷ 2 = 3. The result is -3.
Worked example: multiplying two negatives
Step 3: -5 × -3
Negative × negative gives a positive answer. Multiply the numbers: 5 × 3 = 15. The result is 15.
Building confidence through practice
Practising these steps helps your child spot the sign rules quickly and avoid common mistakes. Encourage them to write out the rule each time until it feels natural.
Key insight: Practising multiplying and dividing negative numbers helps children build confidence for the 11+ exam. Understanding the sign rules and working through simple examples is the best way to master this topic.
