Column subtraction practice
Practice subtracting in columns, with 1 to 5 digits in each number. The bottom number is never larger than the top one, so the answer is never negative. Free, with no sign-up.
How to practice
- Choose how many digits the top and bottom numbers have.
- Press New problem and work out the difference, on paper if you like.
- Type the answer and press Check.
The bottom number never has more digits than the top one, so its choices stop at the top number's. The answer can be typed from the right, starting with the ones, as on paper.
Which level to choose
| Digits (top − bottom) | Example | Usually practiced around age |
|---|---|---|
| 1 − 1 | 9 − 4 | 6 to 7 |
| 2 − 1 and 2 − 2 | 52 − 27 | 7 to 8 |
| 3 − 2 and 3 − 3 | 503 − 278 | 8 to 9 |
| 4 and 5 digits | 7004 − 2586 | 9 to 11 |
Problems where a top digit is smaller than the one under it need regrouping (borrowing). They come up at random, mixed with easier ones. Take the ages as a rough guide: school years differ from country to country.
An example
| 5 | 0 | 3 | |
| − | 2 | 7 | 8 |
| 2 | 2 | 5 |
Zeros in the top number are where most slips happen: here the regrouping has to cross the zero in the tens. The answer is 225.
Check with addition
Every subtraction can be checked by adding: if 503 − 278 = 225, then 225 + 278 must give 503. It's a good habit for longer problems.
Common slips
- Taking the smaller digit from the larger one in every column, whichever is on top. In 52 − 27 that gives 35 instead of 25.
- Zeros in the top number, as in 503 or 7004.
- Forgetting a regrouping made in the column before.
Questions
Can an answer be negative?
No. The bottom number is never larger than the top one.
Does my child have to use a particular method?
No. Kids Love Math only checks the answer, so your child can use the method taught at school.
Are the coins saved?
Yes, in this browser on this device. They aren't sent anywhere, and clearing the browser's data removes them. Family accounts, coming soon, will keep them safe.
More practice: addition, multiplication and division.