Square roots for 11 plus: a clear guide for parents
21 October 2026
What is a square root
A square root is a number that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number. For example, the square root of 36 is the number that makes 36 when you multiply it by itself.
Why square roots matter for 11+
Understanding square roots is important for 11+ maths because they appear in questions about squares, area, and number patterns. Knowing how to find a square root helps children tackle a range of problems with confidence.
Step 1: Think about squares
First, remember what a square number is. A square number is made by multiplying a number by itself. For example, 6 × 6 = 36. So, 36 is a square number.
Step 2: Reverse the process
To find the square root of 36, you need to ask: what number times itself equals 36?
Worked example
36
Start by trying numbers in your head. 5 × 5 = 25, which is too low. 7 × 7 = 49, which is too high. 6 × 6 = 36. So, the square root of 36 is 6.
Step 3: Check your answer
Always check by multiplying your answer by itself. 6 × 6 = 36, so you know you have found the correct square root.
Why practice squares and square roots
Being confident with squares and square roots helps children solve area problems, work with number patterns, and spot relationships between numbers in the 11+ exam.
Key insight: Understanding square roots helps children solve a variety of 11+ maths problems confidently.
