PSLE Mathematics — Word Problems Strategy & Model Answers

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When it comes to the PSLE Maths Paper 2, word problems are often the trickiest part for students — and the most nerve-wracking for parents. Why? Because these aren’t just about applying formulas. They require reading, analysing, planning, and executing multiple steps in the correct order, under time pressure.

At The Exam Coach, we’ve worked with thousands of students to help them break down word problems into simple, repeatable steps. This guide shares our best strategies for tackling PSLE word problems confidently, with sample answers that show exactly what markers look for.

Why Word Problems Matter in PSLE

Word problems make up a large portion of Paper 2. They carry heavier marks than short-answer questions. They test your child’s ability to:

• Understand mathematical language in context

• Apply multiple concepts (e.g., fractions and ratio)

• Translate real-world situations into equations

• Show clear working and logic

Understand the Question (Keywords & Triggers)

One of the most common mistakes students make is misreading or misinterpreting what’s being asked.

Teach your child to look for key trigger words:

Common “signal phrases”:

1. "How many more..." = Subtraction

2. "Altogether" = Addition

3. "Left" / "Remaining" = Subtraction or difference

4. "Twice as many" = Multiplication

5. "Equally shared" = Division

📌 Top Tip: Always ask — What’s the question really asking me to do?

Use the Right Strategy (Heuristics & Models)

PSLE word problems often combine concepts like fractions, ratio, percentage, and area/volume. That’s why strategy matters.

Here are some core techniques taught in top-performing schools:

✅ Draw a Bar Model

Used for fraction, ratio, part-whole problems – Helps visualise what’s known vs unknown

✅ Work Backwards

Used when the final outcome is known – Especially helpful in multi-step percentage questions

✅ Assumption Strategy

Used in ‘If… then…’ problems – Assume one value and adjust based on the result

📌 Top tip: Get your child used to annotating questions and highlighting key information in every problem.

Sample Maths Word Problems with Full Answers

Here are two typical PSLE-style questions, solved using clear steps and explanations.

Q1. A Book Sale

A book costs $12. If you buy 3 books, you get 1 free. How much will you pay for 12 books?

Step-by-Step Answer:

• For every 4 books, you only pay for 3.

• How many sets of 4 in 12?
  12 ÷ 4 = 3 sets

• In each set, you pay for 3 books
  3 × 3 = 9 books paid

• Total cost = 9 × $12 = $108

Q2. Ratio & Fraction

Ali and Ben shared some sweets in the ratio 2:3. Ben gave 1/3 of his sweets to Charlie. What fraction of the sweets did Charlie get?

Step-by-Step Answer:

• Total parts = 2 + 3 = 5

• Ben had 3/5 of the total sweets

• Charlie got 1/3 of Ben’s share:
  (1/3) × (3/5) = 1/5

Tips for Paper 2 Timing & Checking

• Don’t spend more than 5 minutes on a single word problem. If stuck, move on and return later.

• Always show working clearly, even for questions with short answers.

• Underline the units in the question and make sure they are consistent in your answer (e.g. $, kg, m).

• Check for logic: Is the answer reasonable? Does it make sense?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving blanks when unsure. Always make an educated guess with working.

• Mixing up part vs whole in fraction or ratio problems

• Writing an answer without units

• Overcomplicating – use the simplest strategy that works

Remember, the PSLE isn’t just testing maths knowledge — it’s testing exam-smart thinking.