Subtracting Decimals

Subtracting decimals is easy when you keep your work neat

To subtract decimals, follow these steps:

• Write down the two numbers, one under the other, with the decimal points lined up.
• Add zeros so the numbers have the same length
• Then subtract normally, remembering to put the decimal point in the answer

That was similar to 110 − 3 = 107, but with the decimal point in a different position

And that was similar to 7005 − 550 = 6455

And now an example with both addition and subtraction

Example: Calculating Change

Imagine we go to the store and buy some delicious snacks. We buy some chocolate for $2.75 and a drink for $1.20. We pay with a $5 bill. How much change do we get back?

First, let's add up the cost of our snacks:

$	2	.	7	5
+	1	.	2	0
$	3	.	9	5

Our snacks cost $3.95 in total.

Now, we subtract the total cost from the $5 we paid with:

$	5	.	0	0
−	3	.	9	5
$	1	.	0	5

So, we get $1.05 back in change.

This is a practical use of subtracting decimals in everyday life!