Vertical Addition Worksheets
Master vertical addition worksheets with unlimited practice problems. Customize difficulty and generate fresh worksheets every time.
Align by Place Value
Always line up ones under ones, tens under tens. Use grid paper to help students keep columns straight.
Start from the Right
Always add the ones column first, then move left. This ensures carrying is done correctly.
Write Small Carry Numbers
When carrying, write the carried digit small above the next column. This prevents confusion.
Free Vertical Addition Worksheets
Our free printable vertical addition worksheets help students master column addition with carrying. The vertical format is essential for adding larger numbers where mental math becomes difficult.
When to Use Vertical Format
- Multi-digit Addition: Any problem with 2+ digit numbers
- Learning to Carry: Essential for understanding regrouping
- Place Value Practice: Reinforces ones, tens, hundreds places
- Test Preparation: Standard format used on most assessments
Step-by-Step Column Addition
To solve 47 + 38 vertically:
- Set up: Write 47 on top, 38 below, aligned by place value
- Add ones: 7 + 8 = 15, write 5, carry 1
- Add tens: 4 + 3 = 7, add carried 1 = 8
- Write answer: 85
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Misaligned digits: Use grid paper or lined paper turned sideways
- Forgetting to carry: Always write carried digits above the next column
- Adding carried number wrong: Add the carry AFTER adding the column digits
- Starting from the left: Always start from the rightmost (ones) column
Benefits of Mastery
📐 Place Value Mastery
Vertical format reinforces understanding of ones, tens, and hundreds places.
➕ Carrying Skills
Essential practice for regrouping when sums exceed 9.
📝 Test-Ready Format
The standard format used on standardized tests and assessments.
🔢 Multi-Digit Ready
Foundation for adding 3, 4, and more digit numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vertical addition?
Vertical addition is the column method where numbers are stacked and added digit by digit with carrying. It's the standard algorithm taught in schools for adding multi-digit numbers.
When should students use vertical format?
Use vertical format for any addition with multi-digit numbers, especially when carrying is required. It's essential for 2-digit + 2-digit and larger problems.
How do I help my child with carrying?
Start with problems that don't require carrying, then gradually introduce it. Have them write carried numbers small and in a consistent place above the next column.