103 LearnersLast updated on July 5th, 2025
Subtraction on Number Line
Subtraction on the number line helps us visually perform the subtraction operation on small numbers. A number line is a straight line with 0 at the midpoint and integers on either side. The integers to the left of 0 are negative, and those to the right of 0 are positive. Number lines can be used to perform basic arithmetic operations like addition and subtraction. In this article, we will be learning more about subtraction on the number line.
What is Subtraction on the Number Line?
Subtraction on a number line refers to the process of subtracting the subtrahend from the minuend. The process involves moving to the left on the number line. For example, if we need to subtract 7 from 9, we need to start at 9 on the line and move 7 steps to the left to arrive at 2, which is the answer.
What is a Number Line?
A number line is a visual representation of numbers that extends infinitely in both directions. It consists of a horizontal line with evenly spaced markings that represent integers, and it can include fractions and decimals as well.
Number Line for Subtraction
Let us take a closer look at the steps involved in subtracting numbers on a number line:
- Begin by drawing a horizontal line. We should know that this line extends infinitely on both sides.
- Make markings at regular intervals on top of the line.
- Choose a midpoint and mark it as 0. The markings on the right will have positive integers starting from 1, and the markings on the left will have their negative counterparts.
- Now that we have created a number line, let us use it to subtract 5 from 6. All we have to do now is start at 6 and move 5 places towards the left. We will reach 1, which is the correct answer; 6 - 5 = 1.
Subtraction on Number Line Using Negative Numbers
Take a look at the steps below to know how we can subtract negative numbers on a number line. Let us consider the subtraction of -9 - 5.
Step 1: start at the integer -9
Step 2: Since we need to subtract a positive number (5), we must move 5 steps to the left
Step 3: Verify the answer. We must end up at -14.
Subtraction of 2-digit Numbers
To subtract 2-digit numbers, we must follow the steps mentioned below:
Step 1: Arrange the numbers in column form
Step 2: Subtract the ones place
Step 3: Subtract the tens place
Step 4: Write the final answer.
Subtraction of 3-digit Numbers
To subtract three-digit numbers, we must follow the following steps:
Step 1: Write the numbers in column form
Step 2: Subtract one's place
Step 3: Subtract the tens place
Step 4: Subtract the hundreds place
Step 5: Write the final answer.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction on Number Line
Students tend to make mistakes while understanding the concept of subtraction on the number line. Let us see some common mistakes and how to avoid them, in subtraction on number line:
Mistake 1
Moving in the Wrong Direction
Students must always remember that subtraction means moving left on the number line. They can start by practicing with simple examples, such as 10 − 3. In this case, we must start at 10 and move 3 places to the left.
Mistake 2
Miscounting the Steps
To avoid miscounting, students must ensure that they start the count once they make their first move on the number line. For e.g., if we are starting at 7 and moving towards the left, the first count will be 6 and not 7.
Mistake 3
Forgetting to Start from the Correct Number
Students must always ensure they start at the correct number. For example, when we subtract 5 from 9, we must start from 9 and not from 5.
Mistake 4
Ignoring Problems on Negative Numbers
Students can start by practicing problems involving negative numbers, such as 5 - (-8). A number line is used to perform calculations of both positive and negative numbers. Hence, problems with negative numbers cannot be ignored.
Mistake 5
Jumping Unevenly or Using the Wrong Intervals
Encourage using equal intervals and breaking numbers into manageable parts, such as splitting 12−5 into 12 - 2=10 and then 10 - 3=7.
Real-life Applications of Subtraction on Number Line
The subtraction on the number line has numerous applications across various fields. Let us explore how subtraction on the number line is used in different areas:
- Financial Transactions: For financial management, it is helpful to use subtraction on the number line. If a person starts with $100 and spends $35 on groceries, they can visualize the subtraction on a number line by moving 35 steps to the left from 100, landing at $65. This method is useful for budgeting, keeping track of expenses, and ensuring financial stability.
- Distance and Navigation:
Subtraction on a number line is essential in determining distances traveled or remaining. If a hiker plans a 20-mile trek and has already walked 7 miles, they can subtract 7 from 20 on a number line to see that 13 miles remain. This application is useful in travel, logistics, and route planning, allowing individuals to estimate how far they need to go.
- Temperature Changes:
Weather forecasting and temperature monitoring often involve subtraction on a number line, especially when dealing with drops or rises in temperature. If the temperature in the morning is 15°C and drops to -5°C at night, the number line helps visualize this change by moving 20 steps left from 15 to -5. This concept is crucial for meteorologists and everyday life, helping people dress appropriately and prepare for weather changes.
Solved examples on Subtraction on Number Line
Problem 1
Using a number line, subtract 3 from 8.
5
Explanation
Mark 8 on the number line.
Since subtraction means moving left, count 3 units to the left: from 8 to 7, then 7 to 6, and 6 to 5.
The endpoint is 5.
Problem 2
Using a number line, subtract 4 from 4.
0
Explanation
Mark 4 on the number line.
Move left 4 units: 4 to 3, 3 to 2, 2 to 1, and 1 to 0.
The endpoint is 0.
Problem 3
On a number line, subtract 7 from 5.
-2
Explanation
Start at 5 on the number line
Move left 7 units: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0, and then into negative numbers: -1.
The endpoint is -2 (since counting 7 steps from 5: 5 → 4 → 3 → 2 → 1 → 0 → -1, which is 6 steps; so double-check the count: 5 - 7 = -2).
Subtracting a larger number from a smaller one moves the endpoint past zero into negative territory.
Problem 4
Using a number line, subtract 5 from 0.
-5
Explanation
Mark 0 on the number line.
Move left 5 units: 0 to -1, -1 to -2, -2 to -3, -3 to -4, and -4 to -5.
The endpoint is -5.
Problem 5
On a number line, subtract -3 from 6 (i.e., 6 - (-3)).
9
Explanation
Start at 6 on the number line.
Subtracting a negative is equivalent to adding its absolute value, so move right 3 units: 6 to 7, 7 to 8, and 8 to 9.
The endpoint is 9.
FAQs on Subtraction on Number Line
1.What is a subtraction number line?
2.How is subtraction represented on a number line?
3.How do I represent a subtraction problem on a number line?
4. What are the basic steps for performing subtraction on a number line?
5.What does it mean when subtracting a positive number on a number line?
6.How can children in Singapore use numbers in everyday life to understand Subtraction on Number Line?
7.What are some fun ways kids in Singapore can practice Subtraction on Number Line with numbers?
8.What role do numbers and Subtraction on Number Line play in helping children in Singapore develop problem-solving skills?
9.How can families in Singapore create number-rich environments to improve Subtraction on Number Line skills?
Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana
About the Author
Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana has almost two years of teaching experience. She is a number ninja as she loves numbers. Her interest in numbers can be seen in the way she cracks math puzzles and hidden patterns.
Fun Fact
: She loves to read number jokes and games.
