Inequalities: JAMB Mathematics Questions, Answers & Notes

What Inequalities covers in the JAMB Mathematics syllabus

An inequality compares quantities with <, ≤, > or ≥. Solve it much like an equation — but the golden rule is: when you multiply or divide both sides by a negative number, you must reverse the inequality sign. On a number line, use an open circle for strict inequalities (< or >) and a closed circle for ≤ or ≥. Combined inequalities like 1 < x < 5 mean x lies between the two values. 'At most' means ≤; 'at least' means ≥.

For Inequalities, JAMB expects you to be able to:

• Solve linear inequalities in one variable
• Reverse the inequality sign when multiplying or dividing by a negative
• Represent and interpret inequalities on a number line and as integer solutions

Key facts & revision notes: Inequalities

These are the recurring points our Inequalities questions test — revise them until each feels automatic, then practise the questions above to lock them in.

• 2x > 11 − 3 = 8, so x > 4.
• Divide by −1 and reverse the sign: x ≥ 3.
• Divide by −2 and reverse the inequality: x < −3.
• x is at least 1 and less than 4, so x = 1, 2, 3.
• 4x − 2x ≥ 13 − 5, so 2x ≥ 8, giving x ≥ 4.
• '>' excludes 2 (open circle) and includes larger values (arrow to the right).
• Integers from −3 to 5 inclusive: −3,−2,−1,0,1,2,3,4,5 — that is 9 values.
• Divide by −2 and reverse: x ≤ 3.
• Both conditions together give 1 < x < 5.
• The least integer greater than 2.5 is 3.
• Divide all parts by 2: −2 < x ≤ 3.
• 'At most 10' means 10 or less: x ≤ 10.
• 6 > 2x + x = 3x, so 3x < 6, x < 2.
• The greatest integer less than 4 is 3.
• x ≤ 5, and positive integers up to 5 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
• 2x − 1 ≥ 3, so 2x ≥ 4, giving x ≥ 2.
• −x ≤ −4; dividing by −1 flips the sign to x ≥ 4.
• Dividing by −3 flips the sign: x > −3.
• −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3 — that is 6 integers.
• 3x > 6 gives x > 2, so the least integer is 3.
• Divide throughout by 3: −2 < x ≤ 4.
• 'At least 5' means 5 or more: x ≥ 5.
• 4x < 16 gives x < 4, so the greatest integer is 3.
• x ≤ 4 and positive, so x = 1, 2, 3, 4.

Worked examples

Three Inequalities questions with the answer and a short explanation, so you can see how the topic is set before you practise the full set.

How Inequalities is tested in JAMB Mathematics

Our Inequalities bank holds 40 questions (12 easy, 25 medium, 3 hard). JAMB Mathematics typically returns to Inequalities year after year, so steady practice on this topic is high-value revision. Questions are multiple-choice with four options, and at UTME pace you get roughly 40 seconds each — which is why timed practice matters.

How to answer Inequalities questions

Work the stem first and predict the answer before you look at the options; then eliminate the ones that contradict the key facts above. Watch for “which is not…”, “all of the above” and “except” style stems, which are where rushed candidates lose easy marks on Inequalities. If a calculation or a precise definition is involved, work it from first principles rather than guessing from a half-remembered rule. When two options look right, re-read the stem for the qualifier that separates them — JAMB rarely repeats an option by accident. If you are still unsure, eliminate the two weakest choices to lift your odds, flag the question, and move on; never burn a full minute on one Mathematics item when the exam gives you about forty seconds each. Then come back to flagged questions with whatever time remains. The single most reliable way to get faster at Inequalities is repeated timed practice, so use the button above until the recurring patterns feel automatic.

Common mistakes to avoid in Inequalities

The errors that cost marks on Inequalities are usually careless rather than conceptual: misreading a negative stem, confusing two similar terms, or rushing a definition you actually know. Candidates also over-rely on “expo” and last-minute cramming instead of understanding the topic — which fails the moment JAMB rephrases a familiar idea. Treat every option as a claim to be checked against the facts above, keep your working tidy for any calculation, and don’t change a considered answer on a hunch. Above all, revise Inequalities actively by answering questions, not just by re-reading notes — recall under time is what the exam rewards.

Frequently asked questions

Is Inequalities part of the JAMB Mathematics syllabus?

Yes. Inequalities is a recognised topic in the JAMB Mathematics syllabus, covering solve linear inequalities in one variable. You should be able to recall its key facts and apply them to multiple-choice questions.

How many Inequalities questions can I practise on Belmadeng?

There are 40 original, JAMB-standard Inequalities questions in our free bank, each with the correct answer and a worked explanation. You can practise them untimed or as a timed test.

What are the most important points to know about Inequalities?

An inequality compares quantities with <, ≤, > or ≥. Solve it much like an equation — but the golden rule is: when you multiply or divide both sides by a negative number, you must reverse the inequality sign. On a number line, use an open circle for strict inequalities (< or >) and a closed circle f…

How do I answer Inequalities questions quickly in JAMB?

Read the stem carefully, eliminate clearly wrong options, and match the remaining choices to the key facts for Inequalities. Practising timed Inequalities questions builds the speed you need for UTME's pace of about 40 seconds per question.

Are these JAMB Mathematics Inequalities questions past questions or original?

They are original questions written to JAMB (UTME) standard and mapped to the official syllabus — not reproduced past papers. This keeps them legal to use freely while closely mirroring how the real exam tests the topic.

Where can I practise Inequalities questions free without signing up?

Right here — tap “Start Inequalities practice” on this page to begin instantly. Belmadeng's CBT practice is completely free and needs no sign-up, download or subscription.

About these questions: original, JAMB-standard items written from the official UTME Mathematics syllabus (last reviewed 2026-09-18). Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB. Spotted an error? Use the report link.