For example, to estimate 7293 - 3856 using front-end estimation:
The leftmost digits are 7 and 3.
Subtracting 3 from 7 gives an estimated difference of 4.
Ignore the other digits, so the estimated difference is 4000.
Front-end estimation is a useful skill for quickly approximating calculations and checking the reasonableness of answers. It helps develop number sense and mental math skills.To practice front-end estimation, try the following problems: