Subtraction Within 10: Games, Strategies & Worksheet
Subtraction within 10 means taking away from numbers up to 10, like 9 − 4. Knowing the matching addition facts makes subtraction much quicker.
➖ Play the subtraction within 10 game 🖨️ Printable worksheet
Tricks that make it easier
- Think addition: 13 − 5 = ? because 5 + 8 = 13.
- Count back for small numbers, count up for numbers close together (12 − 9: count up 3).
- Use number bonds to 10: 10 − 3 = 7 because 3 + 7 = 10.
Try these
- 8 − 7 =
Answer
1 - 4 − 2 =
Answer
2 - 5 − 2 =
Answer
3 - 9 − 5 =
Answer
4 - 10 − 10 =
Answer
0 - 5 − 3 =
Answer
2
Common mistakes
- Subtracting the smaller digit from the bigger one in each column (72 − 38 = 46).
- Counting the starting number when counting back.
- Not checking the answer by adding back.
A five-day practice plan
| Day | What to do (10 minutes) |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Play Subtraction Sprint on this skill for 5–10 minutes. Read the explanation after every mistake. |
| Day 2 | Learn one trick from this page and use it out loud while you play. |
| Day 3 | Print the worksheet and try it without help. Mark it with the answer key together. |
| Day 4 | Play again and try to beat your personal best score or get three stars. |
| Day 5 | Mix it up: try the ⏱️ Timed test, or ask your child to explain the skill to you in their own words. |
Suits Grade R and Grade 1.
Frequently asked questions
What does subtraction within 10 mean?
It means subtracting with numbers up to 10, so the starting number is 10 or less.
How do I check a subtraction answer?
Add your answer to the number you took away. If you get back to the starting number, your answer is right.
Is there a printable worksheet?
Yes. The subtraction within 10 worksheet has 30 questions with an answer key.