Subtract a three-digit number from a three-digit number: step-by-step example
30 October 2026
Subtracting a three-digit number from another three-digit number can feel tricky at first. Using the written column method helps you keep track of each step and makes it easier to spot when you need to exchange (sometimes called borrowing).
Worked example
Calculate 563 - 287
Line up the numbers in columns:
5 6 3 - 2 8 7
Start with the ones column: 3 - 7. You cannot do this, so you need to exchange (borrow) from the tens.
Take 1 ten from the 6 tens, leaving 5 tens. Add 10 to the 3 ones to make 13.
Now do 13 - 7 = 6.
Move to the tens column: 5 - 8. You cannot do this, so you need to exchange from the hundreds.
Take 1 hundred from the 5 hundreds, leaving 4 hundreds. Add 10 to the 5 tens to make 15.
Now do 15 - 8 = 7.
Move to the hundreds column: 4 - 2 = 2.
So, 563 - 287 = 276.
| Step | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Ones | 13 - 7 | 6 |
| Tens | 15 - 8 | 7 |
| Hundreds | 4 - 2 | 2 |
After working through this example, your child will recognise how to set out the numbers, when to exchange, and how to tackle each column in turn. The next step is to practise similar questions, building confidence with three-digit subtraction using the same method.
