How To Compare Numbers Using Greater Than And Less Than Symbols
FAQs on Greater Than And Less Than Worksheet With Answers
1. What is greater than and less than in maths?
In maths, greater than and less than are comparison symbols used to show which number is bigger or smaller. The symbol > means greater than, and < means less than.
- If 8 > 5, then 8 is greater than 5.
- If 3 < 7, then 3 is less than 7.
- These symbols are commonly used in a greater than and less than worksheet to compare numbers.
2. What do the symbols > and < mean?
The symbol > means greater than, and the symbol < means less than. These symbols compare two numbers.
- Example: 10 > 4 means 10 is larger than 4.
- Example: 2 < 9 means 2 is smaller than 9.
- The open side of the symbol always faces the larger number.
3. How do you teach greater than and less than to kids?
You can teach greater than and less than by showing that the symbol always opens toward the bigger number. Simple visual strategies help children understand the concept.
- Use the “alligator mouth” method — the mouth eats the bigger number.
- Compare objects (e.g., 6 apples vs 3 apples).
- Practice with a greater than less than worksheet for reinforcement.
4. What is an example of greater than and less than?
An example of greater than and less than is 15 > 9 and 4 < 12. These comparisons show which number is larger or smaller.
- 15 > 9 because 15 is bigger than 9.
- 4 < 12 because 4 is smaller than 12.
- Worksheets often include number comparisons like 23 __ 32 to fill in the correct symbol.
5. What is the difference between greater than and less than?
The difference is that greater than (>) shows a number is bigger, while less than (<) shows a number is smaller. They are opposite comparison symbols.
- 9 > 2 means 9 is larger.
- 2 < 9 means 2 is smaller.
- Both are used to compare whole numbers, decimals, and fractions.
6. How do you compare multi-digit numbers using greater than and less than?
To compare multi-digit numbers, look at place value from left to right and compare digits in each place. The first different digit determines which number is greater.
- Compare hundreds, then tens, then ones.
- Example: 456 > 429 because 5 tens is greater than 2 tens.
- This method is common in a comparing numbers worksheet.
7. How do you compare decimals using greater than and less than?
To compare decimals, align the decimal points and compare digits from left to right. Add zeros if needed to make the same number of decimal places.
- Example: 0.75 > 0.7 (since 0.75 = 0.70 + 0.05).
- Write 0.7 as 0.70 to compare easily.
- Check tenths, then hundredths, and so on.
8. How do you compare fractions using greater than and less than?
To compare fractions, make the denominators the same or convert them to decimals. The fraction with the larger numerator (after equalizing denominators) is greater.
- Example: 3/4 > 2/4 because 3 > 2.
- Example: 2/3 > 1/2 (convert to decimals: 0.66... > 0.5).
- Fraction comparison is often included in advanced worksheets.
9. What are common mistakes when using greater than and less than symbols?
A common mistake is reversing the symbol and making it point to the smaller number instead of the larger number. Remember, the open side faces the bigger value.
- Incorrect: 5 < 2 (wrong comparison).
- Correct: 5 > 2.
- Another mistake is ignoring place value when comparing large numbers.
10. Why are greater than and less than worksheets important?
Greater than and less than worksheets are important because they help students practice number comparison and understand place value clearly. Regular practice builds confidence in basic maths skills.
- Improves understanding of number sense.
- Strengthens comparison of whole numbers, decimals, and fractions.
- Prepares students for inequalities in higher grades.






















