Subtraction without borrowing, step by step
Before a child can borrow across columns, they need to be completely sure of basic subtraction facts.
The question
78 − 45
45=40+5
78−40=38
38−5=33
- 78 − 45, across the line. Split only the 45 — the amount being taken away — and take it off in two goes.
- The tens first: 78 − 40 = 38.
- Then the ones off what is left: 38 − 5 = 33. Nothing had to borrow, because each go came off the whole number rather than off one place.
How it works.
- 01
78 − 45, across the line. Split only the 45 — the amount being taken away — and take it off in two goes.
- 02
The tens first: 78 − 40 = 38.
- 03
Then the ones off what is left: 38 − 5 = 33. Nothing had to borrow, because each go came off the whole number rather than off one place.