---
title: "Multi-step problems: choosing operations"
description: "Solve problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Choose the operation and method for each step, then solve multi-step problems in context."
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/multi-step-problems-choosing-operations-mt_RXnyhCRYXA
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/multi-step-problems-choosing-operations-mt_RXnyhCRYXA.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Multi-step problems: choosing operations

Solve problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Choose the operation and method for each step, then solve multi-step problems in context.

Subject: Mathematics · Area: Multiplication & Division · Ages 10 to 11
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/multi-step-problems-choosing-operations-mt_RXnyhCRYXA

## Ready when they can

- Solve a three-step word problem involving a mix of all four operations
- Explain why particular operations were chosen for each step of a multi-step problem
- Identify and correct an error in a multi-step solution that used the wrong operation

## Lesson: Choosing the right operation, step by step

Some word problems take more than one step. You might work out a long division answer, then use it to decide how many coaches you need. Break the problem into parts and solve them in the story's order. Before calculating, decide what each step asks, then carry its answer into the next step.

*(drawing: Each answer feeds the next step: 6, then 2, then 8 total, then 2 left at the end.)*

**Example.** Zara buys 3 notebooks at £2 each and 2 pens at £1 each, and pays with a £10 note. Step 1: 3 × 2 = £6 for the notebooks. Step 2: 2 × 1 = £2 for the pens. Step 3: 6 + 2 = £8 total cost. Step 4: 10 − 8 = £2 change.

Clue words can help you choose an operation. 'In total' and 'altogether' often point to addition; 'left' and 'change' to subtraction; 'each' and 'times' to multiplication; 'share equally' and 'split' to division. Always check that the operation fits the story. If a calculation uses only addition and subtraction, or only multiplication and division, work left to right. For example, 50 − 20 + 10 = 30 + 10 = 40.

**Recap.** Break the problem into steps, choose the right operation for each one, and carry each answer into the next step.

## Practice

18 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Order of operations](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/order-of-operations-mt_jHgRQ4hR0g)
- [Multi-step word problems with remainders](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/multi-step-word-problems-with-remainders-mt_p-nbe0w_lf)
- [Division with remainders (age 10+)](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/division-with-remainders-age-10-mt_WsM4EmdOLe)

## Opens up

- [Advanced Multi-Step Problems](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/advanced-multi-step-problems-mt_FieL-vVTI_)
- [Using inverse operations](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/using-inverse-operations-mt_VUQNveSYjQ)