Worksheet · Grades 3–4 · Column methods
Column Subtraction Worksheet
Two A4 pages: subtracting three-digit numbers in columns, problems with zeros, estimating, missing digits and an answer key.
Column subtraction
1 Work it out in writing.
Line up the places and start on the right.
2 With zeros.
Watch out for the zeros.
3 Estimate first.
Round to the nearest hundred and work it out in your head.
a) 783 − 511 ≈
b) 519 − 282 ≈
c) 290 − 243 ≈
4 Find the mistake.
Tick the wrong answers and work them out correctly.
5 Missing digits.
Which digits go in the blue squares?
★ Brain teaser
Use the digits 8, 9, 5, 2, 6, 4 to make two three-digit numbers with the largest difference.
6 Write them in columns and work them out. One digit in each square, places lined up.
a) 710 − 442
b) 705 − 449
c) 840 − 271
Column subtraction
1 Work it out in writing.
2 With zeros.
3 Estimate first.
4 Find the mistake.
5 Missing digits.
★ Brain teaser
6 Write them in columns and work them out.
What is on the worksheet?
The example at the top lines up the places, starts on the right and checks the result with an addition. Task 1 has three column subtractions with three-digit numbers. Task 2 has zeros in the first number – the place where most mistakes happen. In task 3 your child estimates the difference by rounding to the nearest hundred. Task 4 has worked problems with mistakes to find, and task 5 asks for missing digits. A brain teaser and three subtractions to set up in columns finish page 1. Page 2 has all the answers.
Who is it for?
Grades 3 and 4, when subtraction with regrouping in columns is introduced or reviewed.
How to use it
Check every answer with addition: the answer plus the number you took away gives the number you started with.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an answer key?
Yes. Page 2 shows every answer and a short note for parents and teachers. You can leave it out when you print.
Can I get new problems?
Yes. “New numbers” opens the worksheet generator with the same topic and new numbers, as often as you like.
Why are there problems with zeros?
When a digit is 0, your child has to regroup across two places. Practicing this on its own prevents the most common mistake.