Find the missing factor in a word problem
30 October 2026
Understanding how to find a missing factor in multiplication is a key skill for children preparing for the 11+. It helps them solve word problems where one part of the multiplication is unknown.
Example question
There are 4 baskets with the same number of apples. Altogether, there are 20 apples. How many apples are in each basket?
Step 1: Write the multiplication sentence with a missing factor: 4 ×? = 20
Step 2: Think about what number times 4 gives 20.
Step 3: Use division to find the missing factor: 20 ÷ 4 = 5
Step 4: So, 4 × 5 = 20
Key insight: You can use division to find a missing factor in a multiplication problem.
Answer: There are 5 apples in each basket.
| Basket | Number of apples |
|---|---|
| 1 | 5 |
| 2 | 5 |
| 3 | 5 |
| 4 | 5 |
After working through this example, your child will recognise how to spot a missing factor in a multiplication word problem. They will be ready to practise similar questions and build confidence with maths.com uk style problems.
