Distance problems for 11 plus: clear steps for parents
21 October 2026
Why distance problems matter
Distance problems are a regular feature in 11 plus maths exams, especially in CEM and GL papers. They test your child's ability to work with speed, time and distance, and often require careful reading and unit conversion. Understanding these problems helps children build confidence for a wide range of worded maths questions.
What to expect in CEM and GL exams
In CEM and GL style exams, distance problems can appear as straightforward calculations or as more complex word problems. Your child may need to find the distance travelled, the speed, or the time taken. Questions often mix units, such as minutes and hours, so it is important to check these before solving.
Worked example
A cyclist travels at a speed of 10 km per hour for 3 hours. How far does the cyclist travel?
Step 1: Write down the formula for distance. Distance = Speed × Time.
Step 2: Substitute the values. Distance = 10 km/h × 3 h.
Step 3: Multiply the numbers. 10 × 3 = 30.
Step 4: Write the answer with the correct unit. The cyclist travels 30 km.
Key insight: Supporting your child
Encourage your child to read each question carefully, check the units, and use the distance formula. Practising with a variety of questions, like those in the 11+ Maths: Understanding Distance package, will help them feel prepared and confident.
Summary of the approach
Distance problems become manageable when broken into clear steps. In our example, we used the formula, substituted the values, and checked the units to find the answer. This practical method can be used for many similar questions in the 11 plus exam.
