When it comes to PSLE Math, many students feel overwhelmed by the word problems and tricky questions. But the truth is, with the right approach, even the toughest problems can be broken down into simple steps. In this blog, we’ll walk through real examples of PSLE Math questions and show you how to solve them the easy way. If you’re considering PSLE maths tuition, this guide will give you a head start by helping you understand how to think like a problem-solver.
1. The Classic Model Drawing Question
Question:
Ali had 3 times as many marbles as Ben. After giving away 18 marbles, Ali had twice as many marbles as Ben. How many marbles did Ben have at first?
How to Solve:
-
Let Ben have 1 unit of marbles.
-
Ali had 3 units.
-
After giving away 18, Ali now has 3 units – 18, and it equals 2 units of Ben.
-
So, 3 units – 18 = 2 units → 1 unit = 18.
-
Therefore, Ben had 18 marbles at first.
Tip: Use bar models to visualise ratio-based problems. It simplifies the entire process and avoids confusion.
2. The Tricky Fraction Word Problem
Question:
Amy spent 1/3 of her money on books and 1/4 of the remainder on stationery. She had $36 left. How much did she have at first?
How to Solve:
-
Step 1: After spending 1/3, she has 2/3 left.
-
Step 2: She then spends 1/4 of 2/3 → (1/4 × 2/3 = 1/6).
-
So total spent = 1/3 + 1/6 = 1/2.
-
Remaining = 1/2 of total money = $36 → Total = $36 × 2 = $72.
Tip: Work backwards for these types of problems. Fractions can be easy when you break them into smaller steps.
3. The Time Difference Puzzle
Question:
Jane started her homework at 3:45 PM and finished at 5:10 PM. She took a break for 15 minutes in between. How long did she actually spend doing homework?
How to Solve:
-
From 3:45 PM to 5:10 PM is 1 hour 25 minutes.
-
Subtract 15 minutes break → 1 hr 10 min.
Tip: Always convert time into minutes first for easier subtraction.
4. Area and Perimeter Combo Question
Question:
A rectangle is 5 cm longer than it is wide. Its perimeter is 38 cm. What are its dimensions?
How to Solve:
-
Let width = x → length = x + 5.
-
Perimeter = 2(x + x + 5) = 38 → 2(2x + 5) = 38 → 2x + 5 = 19 → 2x = 14 → x = 7.
-
Width = 7 cm, Length = 12 cm.
Tip: Define the variable clearly and stick to basic formulas.
5. The Age Riddle
Question:
Tom is twice as old as his sister now. In 4 years, the sum of their ages will be 40. How old are they now?
How to Solve:
-
Let sister be x, Tom is 2x.
-
In 4 years: (x + 4) + (2x + 4) = 40 → 3x + 8 = 40 → 3x = 32 → x = 10.7.
-
Since age is usually whole, check again: Try x = 10 → sister = 10, Tom = 20
-
In 4 years: 14 + 24 = 38 (too low)
-
Try x = 11 → 15 + 26 = 41 (too high)
-
So must be adjusted question or rounding involved – important to interpret real-life limitations.
Tip: Trial and error is useful, but always confirm your answer fits all parts of the question.
6. The Volume and Capacity Question
Question:
A tank holds 12 litres of water. It is 3/4 full. How much more water is needed to fill it?
How to Solve:
-
3/4 of 12 = 9 litres.
-
12 – 9 = 3 litres needed to fill.
Tip: Volume problems are often just fraction applications.
7. Final Thoughts
Real PSLE Math questions may look tough at first glance, but once you understand how to approach them, they’re actually very logical. The key is to practice regularly and understand the logic behind each question. Many students benefit from PSLE maths tuition, where they learn how to break down complex problems and apply proven strategies. The goal is not just to get the right answer but to build the confidence to solve any question.
Conclusion
Solving PSLE Math problems doesn’t require being a genius—it just takes practice, strategy, and the right guidance. Whether you’re doing self-study or getting help from PSLE maths tuition, remember that every question has a method. Start with simple examples like the ones above, build your skills, and you’ll soon find that PSLE Math isn’t so scary after all. Keep learning, keep practicing, and don’t give up!
