Long multiplication and division practice for 11+ maths
21 October 2026
Long multiplication and division explained
Long multiplication and division are key skills for 11+ maths. Many children find the steps confusing at first, but regular practice builds confidence. Here is a clear guide for parents to help at home.
What is long multiplication
Long multiplication is used when multiplying numbers with two or more digits. It breaks the calculation into smaller, more manageable parts.
Worked example: long multiplication
Let's multiply 36 by 24 step by step.
First, write the numbers in columns: 36 × 24
Step 1: Multiply by the ones digit
Multiply 36 by 4 (the ones digit of 24).
6 × 4 = 24. Write 4 in the ones place, carry over 2.
3 × 4 = 12. Add the carried 2: 12 + 2 = 14.
Write 14 in front, making 144.
Step 2: Multiply by the tens digit
Now multiply 36 by 2 (the tens digit of 24), but remember to put a zero in the ones place.
6 × 2 = 12. Write 2 in the tens place, carry over 1.
3 × 2 = 6. Add the carried 1: 6 + 1 = 7.
Write 72, but as we are multiplying by 20, write it as 720.
Step 3: Add the partial results
Add 144 and 720.
144 +720 = 864
The correct answer is 864.
What is long division
Long division helps divide larger numbers by breaking the calculation into repeated steps: divide, multiply, subtract, and bring down the next digit.
Worked example: long division
Let's divide 936 by 4 step by step.
Set up the division: 936 ÷ 4.
Step 1: Divide the hundreds
4 goes into 9 two times (2 × 4 = 8).
Write 2 above the 9. Subtract 8 from 9: 9 - 8 = 1.
Step 2: Bring down the next digit
Bring down the 3 to make 13.
4 goes into 13 three times (3 × 4 = 12).
Write 3 above the 3. Subtract 12 from 13: 13 - 12 = 1.
Step 3: Bring down the last digit
Bring down the 6 to make 16.
4 goes into 16 four times (4 × 4 = 16).
Write 4 above the 6. Subtract 16 from 16: 16 - 16 = 0.
Final answer for division
The answer to 936 ÷ 4 is 234.
Key insight: Practice with clear steps
Breaking down each step and practising regularly helps children master both long multiplication and division. Encourage your child to write out every step and check their answers as they go.
