Written arithmetic
- Write numbers in place-value columns.
- Work systematically from right to left.
- Carry or exchange carefully.
Answer: 305 + 42 is written with 5 and 2 in the ones column
🔢 Number
Written arithmetic
Learn written arithmetic with a GCSE-style explanation, help guide, worked example, practice question and flashcards.
Global XP
Level 10 / 100 XP
1. Explanation
Key idea
- Written arithmetic is part of number and appears often in KS3–GCSE maths.
- Written arithmetic uses columns to keep place values aligned.
- Use the worked model, help guide, interactive question and flashcards to practise written arithmetic until the steps feel automatic.
Real-life examples
- Shopping, sport, travel, science, design and everyday decisions all use this skill.
2. Visual
Written arithmetic 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 Written arithmetic
- Learn the rule: Written arithmetic uses columns to keep place values aligned.
- Worked model: Write numbers in place-value columns. Work systematically from right to left. Carry or exchange carefully.
- 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
In column addition, why line up 42 and 305 by the ones digit?
6. Flashcards
Master quick recall
Flip each card, then choose whether you know it or need more practice.
0 mastered
FrontRule for Written arithmetic
BackWritten arithmetic uses columns to keep place values aligned.
FrontExample answer: In column addition, why line up 42 and 305 by the ones digit?
BackWritten methods rely on place value columns, so digits with the same value must line up.
FrontCommon check for Written arithmetic
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.