Solve Decimal Subtraction: Calculate 5.7 - 2.3

Decimal Subtraction with Aligned Place Values

5.7−2.3= 5.7-2.3= ?

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solve
00:03 We'll use long subtraction for calculation
00:07 We'll place the decimal point in the appropriate position
00:10 We'll start by subtracting the corresponding smallest digits
00:15 We'll substitute and continue to subtract and calculate
00:19 And this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

5.7−2.3= 5.7-2.3= ?

2

Step-by-step solution

Let's solve the problem step by step:

  • Step 1: Align the numbers by their decimal points:
    5.7−2.3\begin{array}{c} 5.7 \\ - 2.3 \\ \hline \end{array}
  • Step 2: Subtract the digits in the tenths place 7−3=47 - 3 = 4.
  • Step 3: Subtract the digits in the units place 5−2=35 - 2 = 3.
  • Step 4: Write down the result by combining both differences, making sure to keep the decimal point aligned: 3.43.4.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 3.4 3.4 .

3

Final Answer

3.4

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Alignment Rule: Always line up decimal points before subtracting digits
  • Technique: Subtract column by column: 7-3=4, then 5-2=3
  • Check: Add your answer back: 3.4+2.3=5.7 confirms correct solution ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Subtracting without aligning decimal points
    Don't subtract 5.7-2.3 by treating them like 57-23 = 34! This ignores place values and gives 34 instead of 3.4. Always align decimal points vertically so tenths subtract from tenths and units from units.

Practice Quiz

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FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why do I need to align the decimal points?

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Aligning decimal points ensures you subtract like place values! Tenths subtract from tenths, units from units. Without alignment, you might subtract a tenth from a unit, giving the wrong answer.

What if the decimals have different numbers of digits?

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Add zeros as placeholders! For example, 5.7 - 2.34 becomes 5.70 - 2.34. This keeps everything aligned and makes subtraction easier.

How do I know which number goes on top?

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In subtraction a−b a - b , the first number a goes on top. For 5.7 - 2.3, put 5.7 on top and 2.3 below it.

What if I need to borrow across the decimal point?

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Borrowing works the same way! If you need to borrow from the units place to the tenths place, 10 tenths = 1 unit, just like with whole numbers.

Can I check my answer a different way?

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Yes! Use addition to check: 3.4+2.3=5.7 3.4 + 2.3 = 5.7 . If your subtraction is correct, adding the answer to the second number should give you the first number.

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