Addition and Subtraction Tricks for Kids

Addition and subtraction are the two most important parts of Maths. They are the first mathematical operations that children learn in school, and having a good understanding of these helps them solve tricky numerical problems in higher classes. Kids use basic maths like addition and subtraction in their daily lives. Whether it's for counting toys, sharing chocolates, or solving questions in exams.

Mathematics is not just about numbers; it is about logic and practice. When children understand the basics of addition and subtraction, they also get ready for more maths operations like multiplication, division, and even fractions. With the help of easy methods, rules, and maths tricks for fast calculation, kids can enjoy learning addition and subtraction-based questions without fear.

So, let's learn more about these basic maths operations, their rules, and some smart maths tricks for fast calculation to make learning fun for kids.

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What is Addition?

What is addition? This is one of the first questions kids ask when they start learning Maths. Addition means putting two or more numbers together to find the total. For example, if you have 2 pencils and your friend gives you 3 more, then together you have 5 pencils.

The symbol we use for addition is “+,” and it is called the plus sign. The answer we get after adding digits is called the sum. Words like "plus," "add," "combine," "total," "together," and "in all" are also used in addition questions. Let’s now learn about addition rules.

Addition Rules

Learning addition rules makes solving sums very easy for kids. Here are the simple rules:

• Adding two positive numbers always gives a positive answer. For example: 3 + 4 = 7

• Adding two negative numbers always gives a negative answer. For example: (–5) + (–2) = –7

• Adding a positive and a negative number is like doing subtraction. The sign of the answer will be the same sign as the bigger number. For example: 5 + (–8) = –3

By remembering these addition rules, kids can solve sums faster and with more confidence. Furthermore, to know “what is subtraction?” keep reading.

What is Subtraction?

The answer to the question “What is subtraction?” is that subtraction means taking away one number from another to find out how much is left. In simple words, subtraction tells us how much is left after removing something. For example, if you have 8 chocolates and eat 2, then 6 are left. That is subtraction.

The symbol used for subtraction is “–,” and it is called the minus sign. The answer we get after subtraction is called the difference. Words like "take away," "minus," "left," "difference," and "how many more" are often used in subtraction questions. Here are some subtraction rules that are important to understand.

Subtraction Rules

In order to solve subtraction questions easily, children should remember some simple subtraction rules, like:

• When the top number is bigger than the bottom number, we can subtract directly from right to left.

• When the top number is smaller than the bottom number, we borrow 1 from the next digit on the left and then subtract.

• When both numbers are negative, subtraction gives a positive answer.

• When one number is positive and the other is negative, the answer takes the sign of the bigger number.

• When both numbers are positive, subtraction gives a positive answer.

By following these subtraction rules, kids can solve questions step by step without confusion. Now that you know what addition and subtraction are, let’s explore some Vedic maths tricks for fast calculation.

Check Out: Addition & Subtraction Maths Activity book

Vedic Maths Tricks for Fast Calculation

Vedic Maths is a simple way of solving sums quickly using special tricks. These Vedic Maths tricks for fast calculation help children solve addition and subtraction questions without spending too much time on rough work. With practice, kids can calculate answers in just one or two steps.

Easy Addition Tricks

These tricks help kids add numbers quickly by using simple patterns like making 10 pairs or breaking numbers near 10.

• Memorize simple sums: Learn all sums up to 10. For example,

• 2 + 4 = 6

• 3 + 5 = 8

• 5 + 5 = 10. These small sums will always help in solving tricky problems.

• Make 10 pairs: Numbers that add up to 10 are very useful. For example,

• 1 + 9 = 10

• 2 + 8 = 10

• 4 + 6 = 10. When kids identify these pairs, they can add faster.

• Use benchmarks of 10.

• Example: 23 + 8

• Think of 23 as 20 + 3

• Now 20 + (3 + 8) = 20 + 11 = 31

• Adding numbers close to 100

• Example: Add 98 + 97

• Think of both numbers as near 100.

• 98 is 2 less than 100, and 97 is 3 less than 100.

• Add them normally: 98 + 97 = 195.

• Or do it quickly: 100 + 100 = 200, then subtract (2 + 3) = 5.

• Final answer = 195.

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Easy Subtraction Tricks

These tricks make subtraction faster with easy steps, like subtracting 1 or using the Nikhilam rule.

• Subtracting 1

• 10 – 1 = 9

• 100 – 1 = 99

• 1000 – 1 = 999

• Nikhilam Rule (All from 9 and last from 10)

• Example: 1000 – 678

• Subtract each digit from 9, except the last, from 10.

• (9–6)(9–7)(10–8) = 322

• So, 1000 – 678 = 322

These addition and subtraction Maths tricks for fast calculation save time, improve memory, and make Maths more fun for children.

Read More: Fun Maths Puzzle for Kids

Adding and Subtracting Fractions

Fractions are numbers that tell us parts of a whole, like 1/2 of a cake or 3/4 of a chocolate bar. While adding and subtracting fractions, the first thing that needs to be checked is whether the fractions have the same denominators or different denominators. After that, kids can follow these rules for adding and subtracting fractions:

1. Adding and Subtracting Fractions When Denominators are the Same: Just add or subtract the numerators and keep the denominator as it is.

• For example: 2/5 + 1/5 = 3/5

• For example: 2/5 – 1/5 = 1/5

2. Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Different Denominators: When fractions have different denominators, first make the denominators the same by finding their LCM (Least Common Multiple). After that, add or subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

• For example: 1/5 + 1/3 = 3/15 + 5/15 = 8/15

• For example: 5/6 – 1/3 = 5/6 – 2/6 = 3/6 = ½

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Why Learning Addition and Subtraction Tricks is Important for Kids

Addition and subtraction are the first math concepts children learn in primary school. If kids know some easy tricks, they can solve sums faster in a fun way. Here’s why these tricks are important:

• Build Basics: Addition and subtraction are the basics of math. Once kids understand them properly, it becomes easy for them to learn other maths topics like multiplication and division.

• Helps in Thinking Better: We use addition and subtraction in daily life. So, learning simple tricks can help children think fast and solve sums with confidence.

• Improves Speed and Accuracy: Tricks make kids solve questions quickly with fewer mistakes. This helps in scoring good marks in exams and also helps while doing homework.

• Makes Learning Maths Fun: Games and easy methods make maths interesting. Children start enjoying learning instead of feeling scared.

• Builds Strong Mental Math: With practice, kids can solve sums in their mind without depending on fingers or calculators.

Also Read: Importance of Maths Games for Kids

Easy Tips to Teach Your Kids Addition and Subtraction at Home

As a parent, teaching kids addition and subtraction may feel tough sometimes, but with the right methods, you can turn it into a fun and easy learning experience. Here are some simple tips to teach your kids addition and subtraction you can try at home:

Use Real-Life Examples

Kids learn better and faster when they can relate math to their daily life. So, you can use fruits, toys, or even chocolates while teaching them addition and subtraction. Ask them questions like, “If you have 3 apples and I give you 2 more, how many do you have now?”

Make Learning Fun with Games

Simple games like dice games, number cards, or puzzles keep children excited. For even more variety, PW's 555 Maths Activity Book for Kids can be a good choice. It is filled with games, puzzles, and challenges around addition, subtraction, shapes, time, and word problems. Kids don’t even realize they are studying because they are busy playing and enjoying themselves.

Start with the Basics and Visuals 

Before jumping to teaching basic maths operations, start with numbers. Show them pictures or objects with numbers. Let them draw simple shapes, and then slowly move on to teaching addition and subtraction.

Encourage Mental Math

Once children understand the basics of addition and subtraction, ask them simple mental sums. For example, “What is 10 + 9?” can be solved by thinking, “10 + 10 = 20, then subtract 1 = 19.”

Practice with Activity Books

Along with daily practice, activity books can make learning more interesting. A book like 200+ Addition & Subtraction Maths Activity Book by PW can be very helpful. It has picture-based sums, puzzles, and word problems that cover both single-digit and double-digit numbers. Kids enjoy solving the bright and colorful activities, and at the same time, they get better at problem-solving and logical thinking.

Be Patient and Cheerful

Every child learns at their own speed. Don’t rush them. Instead, encourage small achievements and celebrate their progress. When children feel supported, they start to enjoy learning maths.

Addition and Subtraction Tricks for Kids FAQs

Q1. What is addition?

Ans. Addition means putting two or more numbers together to find their total. For example, 3 + 2 = 5.

Q2. What are the simple addition and subtraction maths tricks for fast calculation for kids?

Ans. Kids can learn simple addition and subtraction tricks like rounding numbers to the nearest 10, using the Nikhilam rule for subtraction, and practicing step-by-step methods. These tricks make calculations faster and easier.

Q3. What is subtraction?

Ans. Subtraction means taking away a number from another number to find what is left. For example, 7 − 3 = 4.

Q4. Is learning addition and subtraction important for kids?

Ans. Yes, addition and subtraction are the basics of math. They help children in solving tough problems in higher classes and also in daily life, like counting money or sharing things.

Q5. What are some easy ways to teach kids addition and subtraction at home?

Ans. Parents can use toys, coins, or fruits to frame a simple question. Fun activity books like 200+ Addition & Subtraction Maths Activity Book and others are also very helpful because they teach through puzzles, pictures, and games.