Maths trick
Column subtraction
Subtract from the ones; when the top digit is too small, exchange 1 from the next column.
Ages 8–11
Worked example
Tap through the steps. Each step can be read aloud.
Step 1 of 4
Write 532 − 278 in columns and start with the ones.
Quick practice
Five fresh questions, marked straight away. Use the trick!
Subtract from the ones; when the top digit is too small, exchange 1 from the next column.
More tricks
Column addition
Line up the digits by place value, add from the ones, and carry when a column makes 10 or more.