Add a two-digit number to a three-digit number: word problems: Example question
30 October 2026
Adding a two-digit number to a three-digit number often appears in word problems for children preparing for the 11+. It helps to see a clear example before practising this type of question.
Example question
Emma has 245 marbles. She buys 38 more marbles. How many marbles does she have now?
Step 1: Understand the problem
Emma starts with 245 marbles. She adds 38 marbles to her collection.
Step 2: Write the addition sum 245 + 38
Step 3: Add the ones
5 + 8 = 13
Write 3 in the ones place and carry over 1 to the tens place.
Step 4: Add the tens
4 + 3 = 7, plus the 1 carried over = 8
Write 8 in the tens place.
Step 5: Add the hundreds
2 + 0 = 2
Write 2 in the hundreds place.
Step 6: Write the answer 245 + 38 = 283
Answer: Emma has 283 marbles now.
| Step | Number |
|---|---|
| Emma's marbles | 245 |
| Marbles bought | 38 |
| Total marbles | 283 |
After working through this example, your child will recognise how to set out and solve similar addition word problems. The next step is to practise more questions just like this one.
