Vertical Subtraction Worksheets
Master vertical subtraction worksheets with unlimited practice problems. Customize difficulty and generate fresh worksheets every time.
Larger Number on Top
In vertical subtraction, always place the larger number on top. This ensures a positive result.
Check Before Borrowing
Before subtracting each column, check if the top digit is larger. If not, you need to borrow.
Cross Out and Rewrite
When borrowing, cross out the digit you borrowed from and write the new value above it.
Free Vertical Subtraction Worksheets
Our free printable vertical subtraction worksheets help students master column subtraction with borrowing. The vertical format is essential for subtracting larger numbers where mental math becomes difficult.
When to Use Vertical Format
- Multi-digit Subtraction: Any problem with 2+ digit numbers
- Learning to Borrow: Essential for understanding regrouping
- Place Value Practice: Reinforces ones, tens, hundreds places
- Test Preparation: Standard format used on most assessments
Step-by-Step Column Subtraction
To solve 52 - 27 vertically:
- Set up: Write 52 on top, 27 below, aligned by place value
- Check ones: 2 < 7, so we need to borrow
- Borrow: Take 1 ten from 5 (becomes 4), add 10 to 2 (becomes 12)
- Subtract ones: 12 - 7 = 5
- Subtract tens: 4 - 2 = 2
- Write answer: 25
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Subtracting smaller from larger: Always subtract bottom from top, not the other way
- Forgetting to reduce after borrowing: When you borrow, reduce the lending column by 1
- Borrowing across zeros: When borrowing from 0, go to the next column first
- Misaligned digits: Use grid paper to keep columns straight
Benefits of Mastery
📐 Place Value Mastery
Vertical format reinforces understanding of ones, tens, and hundreds places.
➖ Borrowing Skills
Essential practice for regrouping when top digit is smaller.
📝 Test-Ready Format
The standard format used on standardized tests and assessments.
🔢 Multi-Digit Ready
Foundation for subtracting 3, 4, and more digit numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vertical subtraction?
Vertical subtraction is the column method where numbers are stacked and subtracted digit by digit with borrowing. It's the standard algorithm taught in schools for subtracting multi-digit numbers.
When should students use vertical format?
Use vertical format for any subtraction with multi-digit numbers, especially when borrowing is required. It's essential for 2-digit - 2-digit and larger problems.
How do I help my child with borrowing?
Start with problems that don't require borrowing, then gradually introduce it. Use manipulatives like base-10 blocks to show what borrowing means physically.
What's the difference between borrowing and regrouping?
They're the same thing! "Regrouping" is the modern term that better describes what happens - you're regrouping 1 ten as 10 ones, not actually borrowing.