This digital download will show you how to subtract using the ruler method with two digits.

Click on Subtraction Ruler Method Video

Sandra’s passion for math and empowering students led to writing a quick post on the step-by-step process that makes subtracting numbers easy and fun. She is excited to share this blog post with student parents so they can help their kids succeed in math too! Check out the Ruler Method for Subtraction below and see how it can help your child understand this essential math concept. Thanks, Sandra!

 To use the ruler method for standard subtraction, first line up the digits in the subtrahend (the number being subtracted) under the minuend (the number the subtraction is being performed on).

Next, starting with the ones place, subtract each digit and write the answer directly below it. Repeat this step for each place value until you reach the end of the problem.

The final answer will be written on the bottom line.

For example, if we wanted to solve 78-36 using the ruler method, it would look like this:

78 | 36

42 | __

36 | __

The final answer is 42.

Remember to line up your numbers correctly and to subtract each digit individually. Happy calculating!

Sample Digital Downloads below