What is Subtraction? Definition, Methods & Examples

Subtraction is one of the most basic arithmetic operations taught to the students in grade 1 & grade 2 mathematics. It is an essential skill that builds the foundation for many additional skills learned in primary math education. It helps students to learn how to take away, compare, and find the difference between numbers. By learning the subtraction facts and solving sample problems given on this page, students will be able to perform 2-digit and 3-digit subtraction easily. The detailed methods, facts, steps, and sample problems explained on this page are quite useful to build a strong foundation in this key math skill.

Table Of Contents

• What is Subtraction?
• 2-digit and 3-digit Subtraction
• Subtraction Methods
• Steps Of Subtraction
• Subtraction Facts
• Sample Problems On Subtraction
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions
  
  

What is subtraction?

Subtraction is a mathematical operation used to find the difference between two numbers. It means taking one number away from another.

Symbol used for subtraction:

The minus sign (–)

Example:

If you have 9 apples and give away 3, how many are left?

9 – 3 = 6

2-Digit and 3-Digit Subtraction

2-Digit Subtraction involves subtracting numbers between 10 and 99.

Example:

45 – 23 = 22

 

3-Digit Subtraction involves subtracting numbers between 100 and 999.

Example:

526 – 213 = 313

Both 2-digit and 3-digit subtraction may or may not involve borrowing (regrouping), depending on the digits.

Subtraction Methods

There are different ways to perform subtraction. Common methods include:

1. Column Method or Vertical Subtraction: To subtract numbers using the column method, first write the numbers in columns according to place value as ones, tens, or hundreds places, and then subtract each place value from top to bottom.

2. Number Line Method: To subtract the numbers using a number line, start from the right side, i.e., from the larger number and move backward to the number being subtracted. This method is useful in learning for kids in primary grades.

3. Counting Up Method: To subtract using the counting method, start from the smaller number and count up to the larger number. This method is also helpful when we are trying to find the difference between two numbers.

 

Steps Of Subtraction

Here are the basic steps to subtract numbers using the column method:

Step 1: First step is to write the numbers in columns and aligning them by place value (ones under ones, tens under tens, etc.)

Step 2: Then, start subtracting numbers from the right at the ones place.

Step 3: if needed, borrow the number from the tens place. If the top digit is smaller than the bottom one, borrow from the next column.

Step 4: Write the result under the line.

 

Subtraction Facts

Memorizing subtraction facts helps children perform quicker mental calculations.

Subtracting a number from itself = 0, 8 – 8 = 0

The difference increases as the number taken away decreases.

Sample Problems on Subtraction

Problem 1: What is 99 – 45 = ?

Solution: Start with the ones: 9 – 5 = 4

Then tens: 9 – 4 = 5

Answer: 54

Problem 2: Solve 504 – 279 = ? by borrowing.

Solution: Borrow from the tens/hundreds as needed.

Answer: 225

Problem 3: Sarah had 150 marbles. She gave 48 to her friend. How many does she have now?

Solution:

Total number of marbles Sarah has = 150 

Number of marbles she gave to her friend = 48

Number of marbles left with her = 150 – 48 = 102

Answer: 102 marbles.

Conclusion

Subtraction is more than just taking away; it’s a critical math skill that helps children understand differences and compare values, which is an essential skill to solve everyday problems. With a strong grasp of subtraction facts, methods, and steps, students can build a solid foundation in arithmetic and more advanced concepts used in later grades.

Frequently Asked Questions

1: What is the purpose of using subtraction?

Answer: Subtraction is an arithmetic operator used to compare, take away, or find the difference between two numbers.

2: What is known as borrowing in subtraction?

Answer: The word borrowing or regrouping in subtraction is used when we have to take/borrow 1 from the next place value in order to subtract a larger digit from a smaller one.

3: Is subtraction commutative, i.e., can it be done in any order?

Answer: No, subtraction is not commutative like addition. In subtraction, changing the order of numbers will change the result. E.g., 12 – 4 ≠ 4 – 12

4: How do I help my kid learn subtraction?

Answer: To help your kid understand the concept of subtraction, use real-life examples and visual aids like number lines, and practice with simple problems first.