FRACTIONS, DECIMALS AND PERCENTAGES

Subtracting Decimals

Learn the reliable method for subtracting decimals, then apply it to 11+ exam-style questions.

1 · WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The idea

Decimal addition and subtraction depend on keeping equal place values in the same column.

Picture itSee each decimal digit hold its place
Stationery and UK money arranged as a real-life shopping problem
2 · THE METHOD

Follow these steps

  1. Align the decimal points.
  2. Add zero placeholders where useful.
  3. Calculate column by column and place the decimal point in line.
3 · WORKED EXAMPLES

See the method in action

Example 1

Calculate 6.97 − 2.88.

  1. Align the decimal points and subtract to get 4.09.
Answer: 4.09
Example 2

A container holds 4.74 litres. 1.86 litres are removed, followed by another 0.5 litres. How much remains?

  1. First 4.74 − 1.86 = 2.88.
  2. Then 2.88 − 0.5 = 2.38 litres.
Answer: 2.38 litres
4 · ELEVENSPRINT TIP

A useful shortcut

Calculate column by column and place the decimal point in line.

5 · COMMON MISTAKES

Watch out for these

6 · TRY IT YOURSELF

Three fresh questions

Ready to check the method? You will get three fresh, validated questions.