Addition & Subtraction Keywords

Foundational

Learn the common words and phrases in word problems that signal whether you should add or subtract. Knowing these keywords is the first step to solving any math story!

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.

Addition & Subtraction Keywords

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