How to explain 10 less than in 10 more or less to your child: Example question for 11+
29 October 2026
Children often see questions asking for 10 less than a number. Understanding how to spot the tens and ones helps make these questions much easier. This method builds confidence with place value and prepares your child for similar maths problems.
Example question
What is 10 less than 43?
Step 1: Look at the number 43. It has 4 tens and 3 ones.
Step 2: To find 10 less, subtract 1 from the tens digit. 4 - 1 = 3.
Step 3: The ones digit stays the same. That is 3.
Step 4: Put the new tens and ones together. You get 33.
Key insight: When you take away 10, only the tens digit changes. The ones digit stays the same.
The answer is 33.
Now your child can quickly spot what changes when finding 10 less than a number. They are ready to try more questions just like this, using the same simple steps.
