Add and Subtract Decimals Word Problems

A decimal is a number that includes a decimal point, which separates the whole number part from the fractional part. For example, 3.14 is a decimal.

To add decimals, align the numbers by the decimal point and add as you would whole numbers, placing the decimal point in the sum directly below the other decimal points.

To subtract decimals, align the numbers by the decimal point and subtract as you would whole numbers, placing the decimal point in the difference directly below the other decimal points.

Place value in decimals indicates the value of each digit based on its position relative to the decimal point. For example, in 4.56, 5 is in the tenths place and 6 is in the hundredths place.

To convert a fraction to a decimal, divide the numerator (top number) by the denominator (bottom number). For example, 1/4 = 0.25.

The term for the number being subtracted is called the 'subtrahend'.

The result of an addition problem is called the 'sum'.

The result of a subtraction problem is called the 'difference'.

Subtract Gerald's height from Lacy's height: 51.25 - 46.65 = 4.60 inches.

Subtract the bill from his earnings: 142.37 - 38.81 = 103.56, which is approximately $100.00.