Subtraction up to 10 – Easy Math for First Grade

Subtraction is the opposite of addition. Instead of putting numbers together, we take some away. In this lesson, you will learn how subtraction works using simple steps, clear examples, and fun practice exercises.

What is Subtraction?

Subtraction means taking away or removing something from a group. It helps us find out how many items are left.

Example:

5 − 2 = 3

If you have 5 apples and eat 2, you will have 3 apples left.

How to Subtract (Step by Step)

Follow these simple steps:

  1. Start with the first number
  2. Count backward
  3. Stop after the second number

Example:

6 − 3 → Start at 6 → count back: 5, 4, 3 → answer is 3

Subtraction Examples up to 10

Notice something interesting? The answers can repeat even when the numbers change.

Using Fingers to Help

You can use your fingers to make subtraction easier. Hold up the first number, then put down fingers one by one.

Example: 7 − 2 → show 7 fingers → put down 2 → you see 5 fingers left

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1 – Solve

  1. 5 − 2 = ___
  2. 7 − 3 = ___
  3. 6 − 1 = ___
  4. 9 − 4 = ___
  5. 8 − 2 = ___
  6. 10 − 5 = ___
  7. 4 − 1 = ___
  8. 3 − 2 = ___
  9. 6 − 4 = ___
  10. 2 − 1 = ___

Exercise 2 – Fill in the Missing Number

  1. ___ − 2 = 3
  2. ___ − 1 = 5
  3. ___ − 3 = 4
  4. ___ − 4 = 2
  5. ___ − 5 = 5

Exercise 3 – Word Problems

  1. You have 6 candies. You eat 2. How many are left? ___
  2. There are 9 balloons. 3 fly away. How many remain? ___
  3. You have 8 pencils. You give 4 to a friend. How many do you have now? ___

Answers

Exercise 1

  1. 3
  2. 4
  3. 5
  4. 5
  5. 6
  6. 5
  7. 3
  8. 1
  9. 2
  10. 1

Exercise 2

  1. 5
  2. 6
  3. 7
  4. 6
  5. 10

Exercise 3

  1. 4
  2. 6
  3. 4

Helpful Tips

Subtraction becomes easier with practice. Try using objects like toys or snacks. Visual learning helps children understand faster and remember longer.

What’s Next?

Now that you understand subtraction up to 10, you can combine both skills to become even better at math.

Continue your learning journey with the next lesson.

Go to Numbers up to 20

Keep practicing every day. Small steps lead to big progress in math!

Download Free Worksheet

Download a printable worksheet to practice subtraction up to 10 at home or in the classroom.

Download PDF Worksheet
⬅ Addition up to 10 Numbers up to 20 ➡