How Do I Prepare for NAPLAN Maths?

Preparing for NAPLAN Maths can feel confusing for many students because the exam does not test formulas alone—it checks how well you understand concepts, solve problems, and apply maths in real-life situations.
Here’s a clear, practical, and student-friendly guide to help you prepare effectively.

1. Understand What NAPLAN Maths Actually Tests

NAPLAN Maths assesses four key areas:

1. Number & Algebra

  • Place value, fractions, decimals

  • Patterns, equations, simple algebra

  • Factors, multiples, operations

2. Measurement & Geometry

  • Area, perimeter, volume

  • Angles, shapes, symmetry

  • Units of measurement

3. Statistics & Probability

  • Reading graphs & tables

  • Mean/median/mode

  • Chance and likelihood

4. Problem Solving & Reasoning

  • Multi-step questions

  • Word problems

  • Logical thinking

Understanding this structure helps you focus your preparation in the right direction.

2. Start With Basics: Master the Core Skills

NAPLAN rarely asks very advanced questions—they focus on accuracy and application.

Strengthen:

  • Multiplication tables

  • Division facts

  • Fractions & percentages

  • Unit conversions

These basics will help you solve harder questions faster.

3. Practise Real NAPLAN-Style Questions

NAPLAN has a very specific format.
The more you practise, the more familiar the patterns feel.

You should focus on:

  • Multiple-choice

  • Numeric grid responses

  • Word problems

  • Real-life scenarios

There are many free practice sets online and in workbooks.

4. Improve Speed + Accuracy Together

Since NAPLAN is timed, speed matters.

Try:

  • Daily 10-minute speed maths

  • Mental maths drills

  • Timed practice sets

The goal is to reduce silly mistakes while working faster.

5. Learn Smart Test Strategies

NAPLAN rewards students who use strategy, not just calculation.

Useful techniques:

  • Underline key words

  • Eliminate wrong options

  • Estimate answers

  • Draw simple diagrams

  • Skip and return to tough questions

These strategies can save minutes and improve accuracy.

6. Use a Step-by-Step Method for Word Problems

Use the RUNSE method:

R – Read carefully
U – Underline important numbers
N – Note what is being asked
S – Solve step-by-step
E – Evaluate the final answer

This method works for almost every word problem.

7. Reduce Test Anxiety

Do:

  • Timed mock tests

  • Calm breathing before starting

  • Avoid checking answers after every question

  • Stay focused on one question at a time

Confidence is often the deciding factor in scores.

8. Review Your Mistakes

Improving means understanding why you got something wrong.

Ask:

  • Did you misread?

  • Was it a calculation error?

  • Did you rush?

  • Did you forget a step?

Correcting mistakes is the fastest way to progress.

9. Follow a Weekly Study Plan

Here’s a simple structure:

Weekly Plan

  • 2 Days: Number & Algebra

  • 1 Day: Measurement & Geometry

  • 1 Day: Statistics & Probability

  • 1 Day: Mixed practice test

  • 1 Day: Review errors

  • 1 Day: Rest / light maths

Even 30 minutes a day works.

10. Get Help if Needed — Including Live Tutors

Some students prepare better with guidance—especially if they struggle with concepts like fractions, algebra, or word problems.

Platforms like TeacherOn, where students can find experienced Maths tutors from Australia and worldwide, can be very helpful.
You can take:

  • One-on-one classes

  • Weekly revision sessions

  • Doubt-clearing lessons

  • Full NAPLAN preparation coaching

It’s flexible, and students can choose a tutor who matches their learning style and schedule.

Consistency Beats Hard Study

NAPLAN Maths is not about memorising everything.
Students who:

  • understand basics

  • practise regularly

  • learn strategies

  • stay calm during the test

tend to score well naturally.

Start small, be consistent, and the improvement will come quickly.

Leave a Comment