Preparing for the 11+ exam can feel overwhelming for families. With so much content to cover, knowing where to start or how well your child is progressing isn’t always straightforward.
That’s where 11+ baseline tests come in. A baseline test helps you understand your child’s current ability in key exam subjects, giving you a clear starting point and valuable insights to guide their preparation.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- Why baseline tests are useful for 11+ preparation
- When to take a baseline test to maximise progress
- How to access Atom’s free baseline tests to support your child’s journey
What is an 11+ baseline test?
A baseline test is a short assessment designed to measure your child’s current performance in a specific subject. 11+ baseline tests are designed to test the types of skills and content assessed in 11+ exams. Unlike full-length mock exams, baseline tests provide a quick snapshot of knowledge, rather than testing exam technique or timing.
Baseline tests typically include questions from:
- English (comprehension, grammar, spelling and vocabulary)
- Maths (problem-solving, arithmetic and reasoning)
- Verbal reasoning (logic, word patterns and critical thinking)
- Non-verbal reasoning (shapes, patterns and spatial awareness)
Why are baseline tests useful?
✔ They help you decide if the 11+ is right for your child.
Not all children will thrive in a grammar school environment – and that’s okay! The 11+ is a competitive exam designed to select children working at the top of their year group.
If you're considering a grammar school for your child, a baseline test provides an early indication of whether they are currently working at the right level. It can also highlight areas where they might need extra support and practice to reach the required standard.
By taking a low-pressure assessment early on, you can make an informed decision about whether to move forward with 11+ preparation or explore alternative school options that better suit your child’s strengths and learning style.
✔ They show you where to focus 11+ preparation.
Effective 11+ preparation isn’t just about doing more work – it’s about focusing on the right work.
Without an initial benchmark, it can be difficult to know which subjects or topics to prioritise. Some children may already be strong in maths and verbal reasoning but need extra support in reading comprehension or non-verbal reasoning. Others may struggle with timed problem-solving but excel in core knowledge.
A baseline test pinpoints the exact areas your child needs to focus on, making preparation more efficient and structured. This means less time wasted on areas they’ve already mastered – and more time strengthening their weaker topics.
✔ They measure progress over time.
When preparing for the 11+, consistency is key. But how can you tell if your child’s efforts are paying off?
Taking a second baseline test later in the preparation process can help measure their improvement. It shows how much closer they are to being test-ready and highlights whether their study plan needs adjustments.
Regular testing can also help you make data-driven decisions about your child’s next steps. If your child’s scores are improving steadily, that’s a great sign they’re on track. If they’re struggling in certain areas, it’s an opportunity to refocus their revision strategy before the exam.
✔ They reduce stress and build confidence.
For many children, the 11+ can feel overwhelming. With so much to learn, it’s easy to lose confidence or feel like they’re not making progress.
Baseline tests break preparation into manageable steps, helping children see their own improvement over time. Every small win – a higher score, fewer mistakes, or a better understanding of a topic – boosts their motivation and self-belief.
By removing uncertainty, baseline tests help children feel more in control of their learning. And when children feel confident, they perform better – both in practice and on exam day.
