Compare numbers
- Line up place values.
- Compare from the largest place.
- Use <, > or =.
Answer: 6,120 > 6,102
🔢 Number
Comparing numbers
Learn comparing numbers with a GCSE-style explanation, help guide, worked example, practice question and flashcards.
Global XP
Level 10 / 100 XP
1. Explanation
Key idea
- Comparing numbers is part of number and appears often in KS3–GCSE maths.
- Compare numbers from the highest place value first.
- Use the worked model, help guide, interactive question and flashcards to practise comparing numbers until the steps feel automatic.
Real-life examples
- Shopping, sport, travel, science, design and everyday decisions all use this skill.
2. Visual
Comparing numbers learning map
Understand the key idea → follow the help guide → practise a question → check your method → build speed with flashcards.
3. Help guide
How to tackle Comparing numbers
- Learn the rule: Compare numbers from the highest place value first.
- Worked model: Line up place values. Compare from the largest place. Use <, > or =.
- Try the interactive question without looking at the answer first.
- Use the flashcards to test the rule, the method and a common check.
4. Worked examples
Step-by-step working
5. Interactive questions
Try it yourself
Which is greater: 4,507 or 4,570?
6. Flashcards
Master quick recall
Flip each card, then choose whether you know it or need more practice.
0 mastered
FrontRule for Comparing numbers
BackCompare numbers from the highest place value first.
FrontExample answer: Which is greater: 4,507 or 4,570?
BackThousands and hundreds match. In the tens column, 7 tens is greater than 0 tens, so 4,570 is greater.
FrontCommon check for Comparing numbers
BackCheck units/notation, compare with an estimate, and make sure the answer matches the question.
7. Finish
Complete this topic
When you have read the examples, tried the question and reviewed flashcards, claim your topic completion XP.