Addition & subtraction – GCSE Maths

Foundation · Grade 1 · Non-calculator

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Column addition and subtraction are place-value in action. Line the decimal points under each other so tenths add to tenths and hundredths add to hundredths. Empty places can be filled with zeros: $3.6+0.85$ is $3.60+0.85$.

When a column cannot give you enough to subtract, exchange (borrow) from the next column to the left. $500-237$ needs exchanges through the zeros. Money answers need two decimal places and one symbol: $\pounds 3.80$, never $\pounds 3.8$ or $\pounds 3.80$p.

Worded questions are the same arithmetic with a story. 'Change' means subtract the total from the amount paid. Add the items first, then subtract, and you will not drop a method mark.

Objectives

• Add by splitting tens and ones.
• Subtract by counting back or finding the gap.
• Check an answer by doing the inverse.

Key points

• Add and subtract whole numbers using columns, carrying and borrowing (exchanging) correctly.
• Line up decimal points when adding or subtracting decimals and money.
• Fill empty decimal places with zeros so the columns match.
• Pick out the calculation from a worded problem, e.g. 'change' means subtract from what was paid.

Worked examples

Questions and answers

GCSE Maths addition & subtraction questions and answers. Try each one, then open the answer. Easy questions come first.

Common mistakes

Most lost marks on this topic are one slip.

1. Adding the ones but writing both digits beside the tens, such as 68 + 7 = 615.

   8 + 7 = 15 ones, which is one ten and 5 ones. The ten joins the tens, so 68 + 7 = 75.

2. Taking away the smaller digit from the larger one in each column, even when the top digit is smaller.

   If the ones digit on top is smaller, break a ten from the next column.

3. Using addition for a “how many left” story.

   Left, spent, and difference mean subtract.

Exam tips

• Be ready to do this without a calculator. Paper 1 is the non-calculator paper.
• If the question says “show that”, the result is given. The marks are for the steps that reach it.
• The method is the same on AQA-style and Edexcel-style papers.
• Even on a calculator paper, write the calculation you are doing (e.g. 10 − 6.20) so the method mark is safe if you mistype.
• In a change question, add all the items first, then subtract from the amount paid. Two clear lines earn the method marks.

Printable worksheet

The same questions are in a PDF you can print. Answers start on a later page.

Download worksheet (PDF)

Or use Print in your browser. Answers under each question are included when you print.

Questions students ask

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More on Addition & subtraction

• Addition & subtraction worked examples and method
  The method in order, key facts and the full lesson explanation
• Addition & subtraction practice questions
  A second set of questions with answers, plus quick checks

AQA-style and Edexcel-style questions. Yumio is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to AQA, Pearson Edexcel or any other exam board.

Last updated 9 November 2026.