Subtract whole numbers
- Line up place values.
- Subtract from right to left.
- Exchange when the top digit is smaller.
Answer: 500 - 137 = 363
🔢 Number
Subtraction
Learn subtraction with a GCSE-style explanation, help guide, worked example, practice question and flashcards.
Global XP
Level 10 / 100 XP
1. Explanation
Key idea
- Subtraction is part of number and appears often in KS3–GCSE maths.
- Subtraction finds the difference or what is left.
- Use the worked model, help guide, interactive question and flashcards to practise subtraction until the steps feel automatic.
Real-life examples
- Shopping, sport, travel, science, design and everyday decisions all use this skill.
2. Visual
Subtraction 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 Subtraction
- Learn the rule: Subtraction finds the difference or what is left.
- Worked model: Line up place values. Subtract from right to left. Exchange when the top digit is smaller.
- 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
Calculate 704 - 268.
6. Flashcards
Master quick recall
Flip each card, then choose whether you know it or need more practice.
0 mastered
FrontRule for Subtraction
BackSubtraction finds the difference or what is left.
FrontExample answer: Calculate 704 - 268.
Back704 - 268 = 436.
FrontCommon check for Subtraction
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.