Inverse operations
- Identify the operation used.
- Use the opposite operation.
- Check you get back to the starting value.
Answer: 23 + 9 = 32 checks with 32 - 9 = 23
🔢 Number
Inverse operations
Learn inverse operations with a GCSE-style explanation, help guide, worked example, practice question and flashcards.
Global XP
Level 10 / 100 XP
1. Explanation
Key idea
- Inverse operations is part of number and appears often in KS3–GCSE maths.
- Inverse operations undo each other.
- Use the worked model, help guide, interactive question and flashcards to practise inverse operations until the steps feel automatic.
Real-life examples
- Shopping, sport, travel, science, design and everyday decisions all use this skill.
2. Visual
Inverse operations 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 Inverse operations
- Learn the rule: Inverse operations undo each other.
- Worked model: Identify the operation used. Use the opposite operation. Check you get back to the starting value.
- 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
What operation checks 48 ÷ 6 = 8?
6. Flashcards
Master quick recall
Flip each card, then choose whether you know it or need more practice.
0 mastered
FrontRule for Inverse operations
BackInverse operations undo each other.
FrontExample answer: What operation checks 48 ÷ 6 = 8?
BackIf 48 ÷ 6 = 8, then 8 × 6 should return 48.
FrontCommon check for Inverse operations
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.