Steps to Subtract 5 and 6 Digit Numbers with Regrouping
FAQs on Subtract 5-Digit and 6-Digit Numbers – Practice Worksheet
1. How do you subtract 5-digit numbers with borrowing?
Subtracting 5-digit numbers with borrowing, also known as regrouping, involves taking value from a higher place value column to complete the subtraction in a lower place value column. Here are the steps:
- First, write the smaller number below the larger number, aligning the digits in their correct place value columns.
- Start subtracting from the rightmost column (the ones place).
- If the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit, you must borrow from the column to the left.
- Reduce the digit you borrowed from by 1, and add 10 to the digit you are working on.
- Complete the subtraction for that column and move to the next one, repeating the process if necessary. This method is essential for solving subtraction sums accurately.
2. What is the best way to explain subtraction to Grade 4?
The best way to explain subtraction to a Grade 4 student is by using a clear, step-by-step method that combines visual aids with practical examples. Follow these tips to make it effective:
- Use Place Value: Start by reinforcing the concept of place value, as it is the foundation for understanding how borrowing works.
- Step-by-Step Demonstration: Show the process of vertical subtraction on a board or paper, solving a problem one column at a time.
- Explain Regrouping Clearly: Describe borrowing as ‘trading’ one ten for ten ones, or one hundred for ten tens, to make the concept more relatable.
- Practice Regularly: Use a Class 4 maths subtraction worksheet with a mix of problems, including those with and without borrowing, to build confidence.
3. How can I practice 6-digit subtraction at home?
Practising 6-digit subtraction at home is easy and effective with focused resources like printable worksheets. For best results:
- Download Worksheets: Get a free subtraction PDF specifically designed for Class 4, which includes plenty of 6-digit subtraction exercises.
- Set a Routine: Dedicate a short amount of time each day for practice to build consistency and speed.
- Focus on Borrowing: Pay special attention to problems that require subtraction with borrowing across multiple columns, as this is often the trickiest part.
- Check Your Work: Use the provided answer key to review the solutions and understand any mistakes, which is a key part of learning.
4. Why is regrouping important in subtraction?
Regrouping (or borrowing) is a fundamental concept in subtraction that is essential for correctly solving problems where a digit in the top number is smaller than the digit below it. Its importance lies in:
- Enabling Calculation: It makes subtraction possible in column subtraction. Without regrouping, you cannot subtract a larger digit from a smaller one in the same place value column.
- Maintaining Place Value: It correctly reallocates value from a higher place value to a lower one (e.g., converting one hundred into ten tens), ensuring the overall value of the number is handled accurately.
- Foundation for Large Numbers: Mastering regrouping is crucial for working with 5-digit and 6-digit subtraction and other complex calculations in mathematics.
5. Does this Class 4 maths worksheet include an answer key?
Yes, this Class 4 Maths Subtraction Worksheet comes with a complete answer key with solutions for all questions. The answer key allows students and parents to:
- Instantly verify the answers for all subtraction sums.
- Identify and correct any mistakes quickly.
- Understand the proper method for solving problems, especially for 6-digit subtraction with borrowing.
- Use the worksheet for self-study and effective exam revision.
6. Is this subtraction worksheet printable?
Yes, this worksheet is designed as a free, printable PDF that is perfect for use at home or in the classroom. Its format is optimized for printing, featuring:
- Large, clear fonts that are easy for Grade 4 students to read.
- Sufficient spacing for writing down calculations and answers.
- A clean layout that avoids distractions, making it ideal for focused maths practice.
7. What skills are built by this subtraction activity?
This worksheet helps students develop several essential mathematical skills for their grade level. Key skills include:
- Calculation Accuracy: Mastering the mechanics of subtracting 5-digit and 6-digit numbers.
- Conceptual Understanding: Strengthening the concept of place value and regrouping in subtraction.
- Problem-Solving: Applying subtraction skills to solve real-world word problems.
- Speed and Confidence: Improving calculation speed and building confidence through repeated practice drills.
8. How do you solve 5-digit subtraction word problems?
To solve 5-digit subtraction word problems, you need to first understand the question and then set up the calculation correctly. Follow these simple steps:
- Read and Understand: Carefully read the problem to find out what information is given and what needs to be calculated.
- Identify Keywords: Look for words like 'difference', 'how many are left', 'fewer than', or 'remain', which indicate subtraction.
- Set Up the Problem: Write down the larger number (minuend) above the smaller number (subtrahend) in a vertical subtraction format.
- Solve and Check: Subtract the numbers column by column, using borrowing if necessary, and then re-read the question to ensure your answer makes sense.
9. What is the trick for subtracting numbers with zeros?
The trick for subtracting from numbers with multiple zeros involves a systematic approach to regrouping or borrowing across several place values. Here’s how to handle it:
- When you need to borrow for a column but the column to its left is a zero, you must keep moving left until you find a non-zero digit.
- Let's say you need to solve 400 - 156. You cannot borrow from the tens place (0), so you go to the hundreds place (4).
- Borrow 1 from the 4 (making it 3). This 1 becomes 10 in the tens place.
- Now, borrow 1 from that 10 in the tens place (making it 9). This 1 becomes 10 in the ones place.
- The problem is now set up as (3)(9)(10) - 156, which is easy to solve. Mastering this is key for large number subtraction.
10. How can this Class 4 Maths worksheet help my child?
This Class 4 Maths worksheet provides targeted practice to help your child master the subtraction of large numbers and build a strong mathematical foundation. It helps by:
- Providing Focused Practice: The worksheet offers a variety of 5-digit and 6-digit subtraction problems, including drill questions and word problems.
- Reinforcing Key Concepts: It is designed to reinforce the critical skill of subtraction with borrowing and regrouping.
- Preparing for Exams: It serves as an excellent resource for revision and helps boost calculation speed and accuracy for school tests.
- Being Accessible: As a free PDF download, it offers a convenient and cost-effective way to get extra practice at home.





















