Word Problems: Addition & Subtraction
Math is everywhere! Let's practice with fun stories about putting together and taking away.
What is a Word Problem?
A word problem is a math question hidden inside a story. We read the story, find the numbers, and figure out what to do!
How to Solve Word Problems
Addition (+): "in all," "altogether," "total," "both," "joined," "more"
Subtraction (-): "left," "flew away," "ate," "gave away," "lost," "fewer"
Addition Word Problems
These stories are about putting things together!
Problem 1: The Puppies
Emma has 3 puppies.
Her friend gives her 2 more puppies.
How many puppies does Emma have now?
3 + 2 = ?
Problem 2: The Crayons
Mia has 4 crayons in her box.
She finds 3 more crayons on the table.
How many crayons does Mia have in all?
4 + 3 = ?
Problem 3: The Butterflies
There are 2 butterflies on a flower.
5 more butterflies come to join them.
How many butterflies are there altogether?
2 + 5 = ?
Problem 4: The Cookies
Mom baked 5 cookies.
Dad baked 4 cookies.
How many cookies did they bake together?
5 + 4 = ?
Subtraction Word Problems
These stories are about taking things away!
Problem 5: The Birds
There are 6 birds in a tree.
2 birds fly away.
How many birds are left in the tree?
6 - 2 = ?
Problem 6: The Apples
Jake has 7 apples.
He eats 3 apples.
How many apples does Jake have left?
7 - 3 = ?
Problem 7: The Balloons
Sara has 8 balloons at her party.
5 balloons pop!
How many balloons does Sara have now?
8 - 5 = ?
Problem 8: The Ducks
There are 9 ducks in the pond.
4 ducks swim away.
How many ducks are left in the pond?
9 - 4 = ?
Mixed Word Problems
Read carefully! Decide if you need to add or subtract.
Problem 9: The Stars
Lily drew 3 stars on her paper.
Then she drew 6 more stars.
How many stars did Lily draw in all?
Think: Is this adding or taking away?
Problem 10: The Fish
There are 10 fish in the tank.
Ben takes 4 fish for his bowl.
How many fish are left in the tank?
Think: Is this adding or taking away?
Problem 11: The Flowers
Mom has 4 red flowers.
She picks 4 yellow flowers.
How many flowers does Mom have altogether?
Think: Is this adding or taking away?
Problem 12: The Toys
Alex has 8 toys.
He gives 6 toys to his sister.
How many toys does Alex have left?
Think: Is this adding or taking away?
Great Job!
You solved word problems! Remember:
- Read the story carefully to understand what's happening
- Find the numbers in the story
- Look for clue words: "altogether" and "in all" usually mean add; "left" and "flew away" usually mean subtract
- Draw pictures or use objects to help you solve
What's Next?
- Make up your own word problems for family and friends
- Look for math stories in your daily life
- Next, learn about common mistakes to avoid!