Subtraction Word Problem Worksheets

Subtraction word problems are a type of mathematical exercise that involve solving mathematical equations in the context of real-life scenarios or written descriptions. These problems require students to subtract one or more numbers to find a solution. Subtraction word problems serve as a valuable tool for improving math skills by offering a practical and relatable way to apply subtraction concepts in everyday situations.

Subtraction word problems typically present a situation or a story in which numbers are involved, and the student is tasked with determining the difference or the result of subtracting one or more quantities. These problems come in various levels of complexity, ranging from simple arithmetic to more challenging multi-step problems. They often include keywords such as “take away,” “minus,” “decrease,” or “difference” to indicate that subtraction is the operation to be used.


Subtraction Word Problem Worksheet 1
Subtraction Word Problem Worksheet 1Answer Key

The worksheet displayed is a set of math word problems focused on subtraction. The problems are framed in everyday scenarios, providing a context for the subtraction operations required to find the answers. Each question involves a simple subtraction problem embedded in a short story, varying from counting leftover items to calculating remaining days.

This worksheet is designed to teach students how to apply basic subtraction in practical, real-world situations. It aims to develop problem-solving skills by requiring the student to extract the necessary information from a text and perform the appropriate mathematical operation. The worksheet also helps in enhancing reading comprehension as it necessitates understanding the scenario to identify the numbers and operations involved.


Subtraction Word Problem Worksheet 2
Subtraction Word Problem Worksheet 2Answer Key

This worksheet is a collection of math word problems that focus on subtraction, structured in a multiple-choice format. Each problem presents a scenario involving everyday situations where students must identify the correct subtraction operation to solve the problem. The scenarios vary, involving objects like marbles and apples, or situations like selling cars and counting students in a gym.

The goal of this worksheet is to teach students to perform subtraction in the context of word problems, which requires both reading comprehension and mathematical skills. It also encourages students to practice critical thinking by selecting the correct answer from a set of options, thereby testing their ability to calculate and verify their results. Additionally, the multiple-choice format helps prepare students for standardized testing, where this format is commonly used.


Subtraction Word Problem Worksheet 3
Subtraction Word Problem Worksheet 3Answer Key

This worksheet consists of a series of subtraction word problems, each set in a practical scenario that students might encounter in their daily lives. The problems require students to read and interpret the information provided, perform subtraction operations, and find the solutions. The situations range from financial transactions and travel distances to keeping track of inventory and event participation.

The purpose of this worksheet is to enhance students’ ability to apply subtraction to solve real-world problems, which is a key aspect of mathematical literacy. It teaches students to extract the relevant numerical information from a text, perform the necessary mathematical calculations, and understand the practical implications of the results. Furthermore, the diversity of contexts in which the subtraction is applied helps to improve the students’ adaptability and broadens their understanding of where math can be used in everyday situations.


Solving subtraction word problems involves a systematic approach that can be broken down into several steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to solve such problems, along with two examples.

Step 1: Read the Problem Carefully

Begin by reading the word problem carefully to understand the scenario and the information provided. Pay attention to any keywords or phrases that indicate subtraction, such as “take away,” “difference,” “minus,” or “decrease.”

Step 2: Identify the Knowns and Unknowns

Identify the quantities and numbers mentioned in the problem. Determine what is given (known) and what needs to be found (unknown). Clearly label these values to avoid confusion.

Step 3: Set Up an Equation

Use the information from the problem to set up a subtraction equation. Typically, the equation will have the following format:

Known Quantity – Unknown Quantity = Result

Step 4: Solve the Equation

Perform the subtraction to find the result or the value of the unknown quantity. This involves straightforward arithmetic calculations.

Step 5: Check the Solution

Always check your solution by verifying that it makes sense within the context of the word problem. Ensure that the answer addresses the question posed in the problem statement.

Example 1: Problem: Sarah had 15 apples, and she gave 7 of them to her friend. How many apples does Sarah have now?

Solution:

Step 1: Read the Problem Carefully

Sarah starts with 15 apples.
She gave 7 apples to her friend.
We need to find out how many apples Sarah has now.

Step 2: Identify the Knowns and Unknowns

Known: Sarah’s initial number of apples (15) and the number she gave to her friend (7).
Unknown: The number of apples Sarah has now.

Step 3: Set Up an Equation

Initial apples – Apples given to friend = Apples remaining

15 – 7 =

Step 4: Solve the Equation

15 – 7 = 8

Step 5: Check the Solution

The solution, 8 apples, makes sense because after giving 7 apples to her friend, Sarah should have 8 apples left.
So, Sarah now has 8 apples.


Example 2: Problem: There were 42 students in the classroom, and 19 of them went on a field trip. How many students are still in the classroom?

Solution:

Step 1: Read the Problem Carefully

Initially, there were 42 students in the classroom.
19 students went on a field trip.
We need to find out how many students are still in the classroom.

Step 2: Identify the Knowns and Unknowns

Known: The initial number of students (42) and the number going on a field trip (19).
Unknown: The number of students still in the classroom.

Step 3: Set Up an Equation

Initial students – Students on field trip = Students remaining

42 – 19 =

Step 4: Solve the Equation

42 – 19 = 23

Step 5: Check the Solution

The solution, 23 students, makes sense because if 19 students went on a field trip, then 23 students are still in the classroom.

So, there are 23 students still in the classroom.