Subtract numbers up to three digits
key notes :
| Understanding Subtraction: |
- Subtraction is the process of taking one number away from another.
- It involves a minuend (the number being subtracted from), a subtrahend (the number being subtracted), and a difference (the result).
| Three-Digit Numbers: |
- Three-digit numbers range from 100 to 999.
- Examples include 345, 678, and 912.
| Basic Subtraction Terms: |
- Minuend: The larger number from which another number is subtracted.
- Subtrahend: The number that is being subtracted.
- Difference: The result of the subtraction.
| Steps for Subtracting Three-Digit Numbers: |
- Align the Numbers: Write the numbers one below the other, ensuring the digits are in the correct columns (hundreds, tens, units).
- Start from the Units Column: Always begin subtraction from the rightmost column (units).
- Subtract Each Column: If the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit, you need to borrow from the next column to the left.
- Borrowing/Regrouping: If the digit in the minuend is smaller than the subtrahend, borrow 10 from the next column. Reduce the left column by one and add 10 to the current column.
| Example Problems: |
- Example 1: 457−123457 – 123457−123
- Subtract the units: 7−3=47 – 3 = 47−3=4
- Subtract the tens: 5−2=35 – 2 = 35−2=3
- Subtract the hundreds: 4−1=34 – 1 = 34−1=3
- Result: 334334334
Learn with an example
Subtract.
868 – 85 =
Subtract the ones. Subtract 8–5.

Subtract the tens. You need to carry over first. Subtract 16–8.

Subtract the hundreds. Subtract 7–0.

The difference is 783.
Subtract.
278 – 26 =
Subtract the ones. Subtract 8–6.

Subtract the tens. Subtract 7–2.

Subtract the hundreds. Subtract 2–0.

The difference is 252.
Subtract.
991 – 77 =
Subtract the ones. You need to carry over first. Subtract 11–7.

Subtract the tens. Subtract 8–7.

Subtract the hundreds. Subtract 9–0.

The difference is 914.
Let’s practice!

