Summarize this article:
104 LearnersLast updated on August 30, 2025
Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two decimal numbers is known as the subtraction of decimal numbers. It helps simplify calculations and solve problems involving numbers with decimal points.
What is Subtraction of Decimal Numbers?
Subtracting decimal numbers involves aligning the decimal points and subtracting each column of digits, starting from the rightmost digit.
Decimals are numbers with a whole number part and a fractional part separated by a decimal point.
How to do Subtraction of Decimal Numbers?
When subtracting decimal numbers, follow these steps:
Align decimal points: Ensure the decimal points of the numbers are aligned vertically.
Borrowing: If a column in the minuend is smaller than the corresponding column in the subtrahend, borrowing from the next column to the left is necessary.
Perform subtraction: Subtract each column starting from the rightmost column and working to the left.
Simplifying result: Remove any unnecessary trailing zeros in the result.
Methods to do Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
The following are methods of subtracting decimal numbers:
Horizontal Method
Step 1: Write both numbers in a horizontal line with a minus sign between them.
Step 2: Align their decimal points.
Step 3: Subtract each column starting from the right.
Example: Subtract 7.53 from 12.67: 12.67 - 7.53 ------- 5.14
Column Method
Step 1: Write the numbers vertically, aligning the decimal points.
Step 2: Subtract each column starting from the right, borrowing when necessary.
Example: Subtract 4.892 from 10.123: 10.123 - 4.892 --------- 5.231
Properties of Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
Subtraction of decimal numbers has several properties:
Subtraction is not commutative: Changing the order changes the result, i.e., A - B ≠ B - A.
Subtraction is not associative: Changing the grouping of numbers changes the result, i.e., (A - B) - C ≠ A - (B - C).
Subtracting zero: Subtracting zero from any decimal number leaves it unchanged, i.e., A - 0 = A.
Inverse property: Subtracting a number is equivalent to adding its negative, i.e., A - B = A + (-B).
Tips and Tricks for Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
Tips and tricks for efficient subtraction of decimal numbers:
Tip 1: Always align decimal points before starting subtraction.
Tip 2: Borrow from the next column when necessary, especially when the minuend digit is smaller than the subtrahend digit.
Tip 3: Remove unnecessary trailing zeros from the result for clarity.
Misalignment of decimal points
Ensure decimal points are aligned vertically to avoid errors in subtraction.
Mistake 1
Forgetting to borrow
Always borrow from the next column when the minuend digit is smaller than the subtrahend digit.
Mistake 2
Ignoring trailing zeros
Remove unnecessary trailing zeros from the result to simplify the final answer.
Mistake 3
Incorrect borrowing across multiple columns
Borrow correctly across multiple columns when necessary to ensure accurate results.
Mistake 4
Neglecting to check the final result
Verify calculations by checking the result, especially when dealing with multiple decimal places.
Mistake 5
Examples of Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
Subtract 3.57 from 8.92
5.35
Problem 1
Align the decimal points and subtract: 8.92 - 3.57 ------- 5.35
Subtract 6.403 from 9.214
Explanation
2.811
Problem 2
Align the decimal points and subtract: 9.214 - 6.403 ------- 2.811
Subtract 0.89 from 5.6
Explanation
4.71
Problem 3
Align the decimal points and subtract: 5.60 - 0.89 ------- 4.71
Subtract 12.345 from 19.678
Explanation
7.333
Problem 4
Align the decimal points and subtract: 19.678 -12.345 ------- 7.333
Subtract 2.718 from 3.141
Explanation
0.423
Yes, but ensure decimal points are aligned properly before subtraction.
1.Is subtraction of decimal numbers commutative?
2.What are trailing zeros?
3.What is the first step in subtracting decimal numbers?
4.What methods are used for subtraction of decimal numbers?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
Subtraction of decimal numbers can be tricky. Avoid these common mistakes:
Explore More numbers
![Important Math Links Icon]()
Previous to Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
![Important Math Links Icon]()
Next to Subtraction of Decimal Numbers
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.
