101 LearnersLast updated on August 30, 2025
Subtraction of Two Numbers
The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two numbers is known as subtraction. It is a fundamental arithmetic operation that helps solve problems involving quantities, measurements, and various calculations.
What is Subtraction of Two Numbers?
Subtraction involves taking one number away from another.
The number from which another number is subtracted is called the minuend, and the number being subtracted is called the subtrahend.
The result is called the difference. Subtraction is one of the basic operations in arithmetic and is used to determine how much remains when a quantity is decreased by another.
How to Subtract Two Numbers?
When subtracting two numbers, follow these steps:
Align the numbers: Write the numbers with the larger number (minuend) on top and the smaller number (subtrahend) below it, aligning the digits by place value.
Subtract: Begin subtracting from the rightmost digit (units) and move towards the left, borrowing from the next column if needed.
Simplify the result: Once you subtract all the digits, the remaining number is the difference.
Methods to Subtract Two Numbers
There are different methods to subtract two numbers:
Method 1: Standard Algorithm
Step 1: Align the numbers vertically by place value.
Step 2: Subtract each column, starting from the rightmost digit. Borrow from the next column if necessary.
Step 3: Write down the result in each column to find the difference.
For example, Subtract 48 from 123: 123 - 48 ------ 75
Method 2: Mental Math
Use mental strategies to subtract numbers, such as breaking numbers into smaller, more manageable parts or using known subtraction facts.
Properties of Subtraction
Subtraction has several key properties:
Subtraction is not commutative The order of numbers matters in subtraction, i.e., a - b ≠ b - a.
Subtraction is not associative Changing the grouping of numbers changes the result in subtraction, i.e., (a - b) - c ≠ a - (b - c).
Subtracting zero leaves the number unchanged a - 0 = a Subtracting a number from itself gives zero a - a = 0
Tips and Tricks for Subtraction
Here are some tips to make subtraction easier:
Tip 1: Always line up numbers by their place values to avoid mistakes.
Tip 2: Double-check your borrowing to ensure accuracy.
Tip 3: Use estimation to check if your answer is reasonable.
Forgetting to borrow
When the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit, remember to borrow from the next column to the left before subtracting.
Mistake 1
Misalignment of digits
Ensure that digits are aligned by their respective place values to prevent errors.
Mistake 2
Ignoring place values
Be conscious of the place values when subtracting, especially when borrowing across multiple columns.
Mistake 3
Overlooking zeroes in subtraction
If a column contains zero, borrowing becomes necessary from a non-zero digit to the left. Always check for these situations.
Mistake 4
Examples of Subtraction of Two Numbers
Subtract 256 from 523
267
Problem 1
Align the numbers and subtract: 523 -256 ----- 267
Subtract 89 from 372
Explanation
283
Problem 2
Align the numbers and subtract: 372 - 89 ----- 283
Subtract 47 from 105
Explanation
58
Problem 3
Align the numbers and subtract: 105 - 47 ----- 58
Subtract 134 from 256
Explanation
122
Problem 4
Align the numbers and subtract: 256 -134 ----- 122
Subtract 68 from 150
Explanation
82
No, subtraction is not commutative; changing the order of numbers affects the result.
1.What happens when you subtract zero from a number?
2.What is the difference in subtraction?
3.What is borrowing in subtraction?
4.Can subtraction yield a negative result?
5.How can children in Thailand use numbers in everyday life to understand Subtraction of Two Numbers?
6.What are some fun ways kids in Thailand can practice Subtraction of Two Numbers with numbers?
7.What role do numbers and Subtraction of Two Numbers play in helping children in Thailand develop problem-solving skills?
8.How can families in Thailand create number-rich environments to improve Subtraction of Two Numbers skills?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction
Subtraction can sometimes be tricky, leading to common mistakes. Understanding these errors can help avoid them.
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.
