Average in Primary Math: Easy Step-by-Step Formula to Solve This P6 Math Question

Average is one of the most important topics in Primary Math and appears regularly in the PSLE exams. Although the formula looks simple, many students lose marks because they forget to find the total first or make calculation mistakes when working with decimal numbers. Mastering this concept helps students become more confident in mathematics and prepares them for more challenging average questions later on.

Average Word Problem:

The average of 4 numbers is 10.6. Three of the numbers are shown below. What is the fourth number?

Struggling with average in Primary Math? Learn the average formula through this PSLE Math question involving decimals. Build confidence in mathematics, avoid common mistakes and access Superstar Teacher's instant homework help with a real student solution.

To solve this question, students need to remember the formula. Since the average and the number of values are given, the first step is to find the sum (or total) of all four numbers. Next, add the three known numbers together and compare that total with the overall sum. The difference gives the missing fourth number.

This question may look straightforward, but the decimal values increase the chance of careless mistakes. A strong understanding of the relationship between the total and the number of values allows students to solve similar questions accurately and confidently.

Need more help with Primary Math? The conversation below shows how a Superstar Teacher guided a student through this exact question using on-demand homework help. Explore the full explanation and discover how instant homework help can turn challenging mathematics questions into valuable learning opportunities.

Real mentors, Real-time answers

Nicole

how can i do this question/what’s the basic concept
Hello!
hii
To do this question, you know that there are 4 numbers that, when added together and divided by 4 = 10.6
So the first thing to do is multiply back by 4 to find out the sum of the 4 numbers.
To do this we take 10.6 times 4 = 42.4
Then we subtract the 3 known numbers, to get the 4th number
So the subtraction part will look like this:
42.4 - 6.6 - 8.5 - 11.1 = 16.2
ohhh
So the 4th number is 16.2 :)
so if i have an average of 5 numbers and they give one number
i divide by 5 first??
If they give you the average of 5 numbers
Then you must multiple by 5 to get the sum
oh so i multiply
Yup
okay thanks!!!!!
Hope the explanation is clear!
No problem, bye ;)
:)

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