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Last updated on August 30, 2025

Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping

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The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two whole numbers is known as subtraction. Subtraction with regrouping involves borrowing from the next place value to simplify the process. It helps solve problems involving whole numbers and arithmetic operations.

Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping for US Students
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What is Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping?

Subtracting whole numbers with regrouping involves borrowing from a higher place value when the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit.

This process ensures accurate subtraction of each digit, starting from the rightmost place value.

Whole numbers are composed of digits that represent units, tens, hundreds, and so on.

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How to do Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping?

When subtracting whole numbers with regrouping, follow these steps:

Borrow from the next place value: If the top digit is smaller, borrow from the next place value on the left.

Subtract each column: Work from right to left, subtracting each column of digits.

Simplify the result: After subtraction, ensure no negative numbers remain.

The final result is the difference between the two numbers.

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Methods to do Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping

These are the methods for subtraction with regrouping:

 

Method 1: Horizontal Method

To apply the horizontal method for subtraction, follow these steps:

 

Step 1: Write both numbers in a line with a minus sign between them.

Step 2: Borrow from the next place if required.

Step 3: Subtract each digit column.

 

For example, subtract 432 from 587:

 

Step 1: Write the numbers: 587 - 432

Step 2: Borrow where needed and subtract:

Step 3: Result: 155

 

Method 2: Column Method

Using the column method, arrange numbers vertically, aligning place values. Borrow from the next column when necessary, then subtract.

For example, subtract 124 from 563:

Solution: Arrange numbers vertically. 563 - 124 ------ 439

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Properties of Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping

Subtraction has certain properties: Subtraction is not commutative Changing the order of numbers changes the result, e.g., A - B ≠ B - A.

Subtraction is not associative Regrouping numbers changes the result. For instance, (A − B) − C ≠ A − (B − C).

Subtracting zero leaves the number unchanged Subtracting zero from any number results in the same number: A - 0 = A.

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Tips and Tricks for Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping

Here are some useful tips:

Tip 1: Always start subtracting from the rightmost digit.

Tip 2: Ensure all digits align correctly, especially in the column method.

Tip 3: Double-check each step for borrowing errors to avoid mistakes.

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Forgetting to borrow

Often, students forget to borrow when needed, leading to incorrect results. Always check each digit column for borrowing requirements.

Mistake 1

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Misaligning digits

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Ensure digits are properly aligned in columns. Misalignment leads to incorrect subtraction.

Mistake 2

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Over-borrowing

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Borrowing unnecessarily can cause errors. Only borrow when the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit.

Mistake 3

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Leaving calculations unsimplified

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Always complete the subtraction process and simplify the final result to ensure accuracy.

Mistake 4

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Ignoring zero as a placeholder

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Use zero as a placeholder for missing digits, especially in different place values, to maintain alignment.

Mistake 5

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Examples of Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping

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Subtract 148 from 523

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375

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Problem 1

Use the column method: 523 - 148 ------ 375

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Subtract 276 from 641

Explanation

365

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Problem 2

Use the column method: 641 - 276 ------ 365

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Subtract 389 from 754

Explanation

365

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Problem 3

Use the column method: 754 - 389 ------ 365

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Subtract 492 from 805

Explanation

313

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Problem 4

Use the column method: 805 - 492 ------ 313

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Subtract 157 from 600

Explanation

443

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Yes, if each top digit is larger than the corresponding bottom digit, you can subtract without regrouping.

1.Is subtraction commutative with whole numbers?

No, switching the numbers changes the result in subtraction.

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2.What is borrowing in subtraction?

Borrowing is taking one from the next left place value when the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit.

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3.What is the column method of subtraction?

It involves writing numbers vertically, aligning by place value, and subtracting each column, borrowing if necessary.

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4.Why is zero used in subtraction?

Zero acts as a placeholder to maintain alignment across place values during subtraction.

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction of Whole Numbers with Regrouping

Subtraction with regrouping can be challenging, leading to common mistakes. Awareness of these errors can help prevent them.

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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.

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Fun Fact

: She loves to read number jokes and games.

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