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111 LearnersLast updated on August 30, 2025
Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping
The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two numbers is known as the subtraction of whole numbers. It helps to simplify calculations and solve problems involving arithmetic operations without needing to regroup or borrow.
What is Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping?
Subtracting whole numbers without regrouping involves directly taking away the smaller number from the larger number without the need to borrow from another digit.
This process is straightforward when each digit of the minuend is larger than or equal to the corresponding digit of the subtrahend.
Whole numbers consist only of digits and do not include fractions or decimals.
How to do Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping?
When subtracting whole numbers without regrouping, follow these steps:
Align the numbers: Arrange the numbers vertically so that the digits of the same place value are aligned.
Subtract each column: Start from the rightmost column (units) and subtract each column without borrowing.
Write the result: After subtracting each column, write down the result for each column consecutively.
Methods to do Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping
The following are the methods of subtraction of whole numbers without regrouping:
Method 1: Horizontal Method
To apply the horizontal method for subtraction of whole numbers, use the following steps.
Step 1: Write both numbers on the same line with a minus sign in between.
Step 2: Subtract each digit from left to right without borrowing.
Step 3: Write the final difference.
Example: Subtract 25 from 47.
Step 1: 47 - 25
Step 2: Subtract directly: 47 - 25 = 22
Answer: 22
Method 2: Column Method
When subtracting using the column method, write the numbers one below the other, ensuring digits are aligned in each column.
Subtract each column without borrowing.
Example: Subtract 32 from 54.
Solution: 54 - 32 ----- 22 Therefore, upon subtracting, we get 22.
Properties of Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping
In subtraction of whole numbers without regrouping, some properties are observed:
Subtraction is not commutative Changing the order of the numbers changes the result, i.e., A - B ≠ B - A Subtraction is not associative Unlike addition, we cannot regroup numbers in subtraction.
Changing the grouping changes the result.
(A - B) - C ≠ A - (B - C) Subtracting zero from a number leaves the number as is Subtracting zero from any number results in the same number: A - 0 = A
Tips and Tricks for Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping
Here are some helpful tips for subtracting whole numbers without regrouping:
Tip 1: Double-check alignment of numbers to avoid mistakes.
Tip 2: Always start subtraction from the rightmost column to minimize errors.
Tip 3: If you struggle with visualization, use grid paper to help line up numbers correctly.
Misalignment of numbers
Ensure that numbers are properly aligned by their place values to avoid incorrect results.
Mistake 1
Subtracting incorrectly from larger digits
Make sure each digit of the minuend is larger than or equal to the corresponding digit of the subtrahend to avoid errors.
Mistake 2
Leaving calculations incomplete
After subtracting, ensure you write down the complete answer with no steps skipped.
Mistake 3
Ignoring zeros in the middle of numbers
Zeros can be tricky; ensure they are accounted for and handled correctly during subtraction.
Mistake 4
Neglecting to verify results
Always double-check your work to ensure accuracy, especially in columns.
Mistake 5
Examples of Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping
Subtract 12 from 45
33
Problem 1
Use the column method: 45 - 12 ----- 33
Subtract 27 from 59
Explanation
32
Problem 2
Use the column method: 59 - 27 ----- 32
Subtract 16 from 34
Explanation
18
Problem 3
Use the column method: 34 - 16 ----- 18
Subtract 13 from 68
Explanation
55
Problem 4
Use the column method: 68 - 13 ----- 55
Subtract 24 from 75
Explanation
51
No, subtraction without regrouping is only possible when each digit of the minuend is larger than or equal to the corresponding digit of the subtrahend.
1.Is subtraction commutative in whole numbers?
2.Why is it important to align numbers correctly?
3.What is the first step of the subtraction of whole numbers without regrouping?
4.What method is used for the subtraction of whole numbers?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction of Whole Numbers Without Regrouping
Subtraction without regrouping can still lead to common mistakes.Awareness of these errors can help avoid 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.
Fun Fact
: She loves to read number jokes and games.
