Subtracting Decimals Made Easy

Decimals are an important concept in mathematics, and it is crucial to master the skill of subtracting decimals. Whether you are a student struggling with subtracting decimals or an adult looking to refresh your math skills, this article will make subtracting decimals easy for you.

To start subtracting decimals, it is essential to understand place value. Each digit in a decimal represents a fraction of a whole number. The first digit after the decimal point represents tenths, the second represents hundredths, the third represents thousandths, and so on. This understanding will make the process of subtracting decimals much simpler.

Let’s take an example: 3.46 – 1.37. We start by lining up the decimal points in both numbers.

3.46
– 1.37

Now, we can subtract the numbers as we would do with whole numbers.
Start from the rightmost column, which is the thousandths column in this case. We have to subtract 7 thousandths from 6 thousandths. Since 6 is smaller than 7, we borrow from the digit to the left. The 6 becomes 5, and the 4 in the hundredths column becomes 14. Thus, the subtraction becomes:

3.45
– 1.37

Now, we move on to the next column to the left, which is the hundredths column. We subtract 3 hundredths from 4 hundredths, which gives us 1 hundredth:

3.45
– 1.37

Moving further left, we now subtract 1 tenth from 4 tenths, resulting in 3 tenths:

3.35
– 1.37

Lastly, we subtract 1 whole number from 3 whole numbers, giving us 2 whole numbers:

2.35
– 1.37

Therefore, the result of 3.46 – 1.37 is 2.35.

It is essential to note that when subtracting decimals, if the digits to be subtracted are smaller than the digits in the minuend (the number from which we subtract), we borrow from the digits to the left. This concept is similar to borrowing in whole number subtraction.

Sometimes, decimals may have different place values. In such cases, it is important to align the place values correctly before subtraction. It is similar to adding leading zeroes in whole number addition. This alignment ensures that the subtraction is accurate and simplifies the process.

Practice is key to mastering any skill, including subtracting decimals. By solving various subtraction problems involving decimals, you will develop a better understanding of the concept and become more confident in your abilities.

To conclude, subtracting decimals may seem intimidating, but with a clear understanding of place value and some practice, it becomes much easier. Remember to line up the decimal points, borrow when necessary, and align place values correctly. With these guidelines in mind, you will be able to subtract decimals effortlessly. So, keep practicing and enjoy the journey of mastering subtracting decimals!