Understanding Subtraction

How do you subtract whole numbers?

First, remember this:

  • When subtracting whole numbers, always work from right to left, and always subtract the bottom number from the top number. Subtract the digits in the ones column first, then move on to the tens column, and finally move on to the hundreds column.

Example: First subtract the digits in the ones column. Use the blocks beside the problem to help you understand.

spacer