Subtraction – Methods and Examples

Methods of Subtraction

There are several methods for performing subtraction, each suited to different scenarios. Some common techniques include subtraction on a number line, mathematical operations using the minus sign, subtraction with the column method, and subtraction with regrouping.

Subtraction on a Number Line

Subtraction on a number line is a visual method that helps in understanding the concept of taking away one quantity from another. It involves representing the starting number on the number line and then moving backward to find the difference. This method is particularly useful for teaching subtraction to young learners and visual learners. Let us subtract 4 and 2 by using a number line. We will begin by marking at 4. To subtract using a number line, we will subtract 2 from 4 by moving two units to the left. The number we land of after moving two units to the left is 2, so subtracting 2 from 4 gives us a difference of 4. 

Subtraction with Column Method

The column method is a systematic approach to performing subtraction, especially for multi-digit numbers. It involves aligning the numbers vertically and subtracting each place value from right to left, taking into account any necessary borrowing or regrouping. This method provides a structured way to perform complex subtractions with ease.

Example: Subtract 59360 and 32150

To subtract the numbers, we will first begin with subtraction of the digit on the right, i.e, the digits in the ones column, subtracting 0 by 0 gives us 0. Then, we will move to the digit on the tens place which is 6 and 5, subtraction 6 by 5 gives us 1, we will carry out the same process for all columns to get the final result.

Subtraction with Regrouping

Subtraction with regrouping, also known as borrowing, is a technique used when the digit being subtracted is larger than the digit it is being subtracted from. In such cases, regrouping is necessary to perform the subtraction accurately. This method is crucial for handling complex subtractions involving multi-digit numbers.

Example: Subtract 65317 and 53818

Step 1: We will begin at the right with digits at ones place, since 8 is greater than 7 we will borrow one from the tens column which will make it 17. 17 – 8 will be 9.

Step 2: In the tens column, after giving 1 to the ones column, we have 0 left which is less than 1, so we will borrow 1 from hundreds place will make it 10, then 10 – 1 will be 9.

Step 3: In the hundreds place, after giving 1 to tens place, wehave 2 left which is less than 8, so we borrow 1 from thousands place, which makes it 12, then 12 – 8 will be 4

Step 4: Subtracting digits in the thousands place we get 4 – 3 = 1.

Step 5: Subtracting digits in the ten thousands place we get 6 – 5 =2. Thus, the difference will be 11499.