Addition & Subtraction Keywords

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What operation do the words "in all," "altogether," and "total" usually suggest?

Addition (\(+\)). These words ask for the total amount when you combine different quantities.

What operation does the phrase "how many are left" or "remain" usually suggest?

Subtraction (\(-\)). This tells you to take away one amount from a starting total.

What operation does the phrase "how many more" or "how much more" suggest?

Subtraction (\(-\)). This asks you to find the difference between two numbers.

The word "sum" is the answer to an addition problem. If a problem asks for the "sum," you should...

Add (\(+\)). For example, the sum of \(3\) and \(4\) is \(7\).

The word "difference" is the answer to a subtraction problem. If a problem asks for the "difference," you should...

Subtract (\(-\)). For example, the difference between \(10\) and \(6\) is \(4\).

The words "combined" and "joined" are keywords for which operation?

Addition (\(+\)). These words mean you are putting groups together to find a new total.

The phrase "fewer than" or "less than" is a clue that you need to...

Subtract (\(-\)). You are comparing two amounts to find out how much smaller one is than the other.

What does the phrase "take away" signal in a word problem?

Subtraction (\(-\)). This is a direct clue to remove a certain amount from a total.

If a problem mentions that an amount has "increased by" a number, what operation should you use?

Addition (\(+\)). An increase means the starting number gets bigger.

If a problem says an amount was "reduced by" a number or there was a "decrease," what operation is needed?

Subtraction (\(-\)). A decrease or reduction means the starting number gets smaller.