Add/Subtract Decimals

When adding or subtracting decimals, it's important to align the decimal points before you perform the operation. Let's go through the steps for both addition and subtraction of decimals.

Adding Decimals

Step 1: Line up the numbers by the decimal point.

Step 2: Add the numbers as if they were whole numbers.

Step 3: Place the decimal point in the answer directly below the decimal points in the numbers being added.

For example:

  25.7
+ 12.34
-------
  38.04

Subtracting Decimals

Step 1: Line up the numbers by the decimal point.

Step 2: Subtract the numbers as if they were whole numbers.

Step 3: Place the decimal point in the answer directly below the decimal points in the numbers being subtracted.

For example:

   37.6
-  9.82
-------
   27.78

Remember, when subtracting, if the top number is smaller than the bottom number, you may need to borrow from the next place value to the left.

Practice these steps with various examples to become comfortable with adding and subtracting decimals. Good luck!