Subtract numbers up to three digits – word problems

key notes :

🔹 Understand the Word Problem First

Before subtracting, read the question carefully.
✅ Identify what is given and what you need to find out.
📌 Words like “left”, “remain”, “difference”, “how many more” tell us to subtract.

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🔹 Use Place Value to Subtract (Hundreds–Tens–Ones)

Break 3-digit numbers into H T O (Hundreds, Tens, Ones).
Example: 452 → 4️⃣ hundreds, 5️⃣ tens, 2️⃣ ones

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🔹 Borrowing/Regrouping May Be Needed

If the number on top is smaller, borrow from the next place value.
🔁 Borrow from hundreds to tens or tens to ones when required.

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🔹 Write the Numbers Vertically ✍️

To avoid confusion, write numbers one below the other:
Hundreds under H, tens under T, ones under O.
This helps subtract neatly and correctly.

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🔹 Check Your Answer ✅

After subtracting, add the answer to the smaller number.
If you get the bigger number again, your subtraction is correct! 🎉

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🔹 Keywords That Signal Subtraction 🧠

Look for these words in word problems:
🔸 Left
🔸 Difference
🔸 How many more?
🔸 Remain/Remaining
🔸 Fewer
🔸 Take away
🔸 Lost

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🔹 Use Real-Life Situations 🧺🚗📚

Subtraction word problems often involve:
🧃 Items used or eaten
🚲 Distance covered
🧵 Things lost or given away
📘 Books read, pages left to read

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🔹 Draw or Use Models if Needed ✏️🧊

Students can use:
🟦 Number blocks
📍 Number line
📊 Quick sketches or bar models

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🔹 Practice Helps Accuracy 🏆

Solve different types of subtraction word problems every day to improve:
🎯 Speed
🎯 Understanding
🎯 Accuracy

Learn with an example

Let’s practice!