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  3. Subtraction Word Problems

Subtraction Word Problems

Short story problems where children choose subtraction and write the number sentence.

Preview of the Subtraction Word Problems worksheet
  • One A4 page, black and white, prints on any home printer
  • Answer space built into the page, plus a separate answer key
  • Free, with no sign-up and no ads

Year groups show where this is usually met in England. Other countries order topics differently, so use the age as a guide, not a rule.

A tip for subtraction

Start with the number line sheets, then move to facts and word problems. A child who can count back confidently finds borrowing far easier later.

More subtraction worksheets

Count Back Subtraction

Children use a number line to count back and take away, the first step to subtracting without counting on fingers.

Year 1 · ages 5–6

Subtraction Facts to 20

A page of subtraction equations within 20, for building quick recall.

Year 2 · ages 6–7

Subtract a 1-Digit Number from a 2-Digit Number

Takes a single digit away from a two-digit number, the bridge between facts to 20 and column subtraction.

Year 2 · ages 6–7

Find the Difference

Counts up from the smaller number on a number line to find the difference, a method that suits numbers that are close together.

Year 2 · ages 6–7

Vertical Subtraction (No Borrowing)

Two-digit subtractions in columns where every digit on top is bigger than the one below, so there is nothing to exchange.

Year 2 · ages 6–7

Subtraction Pyramid

Each block is the difference of the two below it, a puzzle format that makes repeated subtraction feel like a game.

Year 3 · ages 7–8

Subtraction within 100 (With Borrowing)

Two-digit subtractions that need an exchange from the tens column, on a full page of practice.

Year 3 · ages 7–8

Three-Digit Column Subtraction

Hundreds, tens and ones lined up in columns, with exchanges where they are needed.

Year 3 · ages 7–8
See all subtraction worksheets →

Practise on a screen with MathBase

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