Subtract 23 from 57: Vertical Format Two-Digit Subtraction

Q: Why do I start with the units place instead of tens?

Starting with the units place (ones column) is the standard method because it helps you handle borrowing if needed. This creates a consistent pattern that works for all subtraction problems!

Q: What if the bottom digit is bigger than the top digit?

When the bottom digit is larger, you need to borrow from the next column to the left. For example, in problems like 52 - 27, you'd borrow 1 ten from the tens place.

Q: How do I make sure my columns are lined up correctly?

Use the place value positions as your guide! The rightmost digits (units) should be directly under each other, then tens under tens. Think of it like a building - each floor must be perfectly stacked.

Q: Can I do this problem from left to right instead?

While you could subtract left to right, the standard right-to-left method is much more reliable, especially when you need to borrow. Stick with units first, then tens.

Q: How can I double-check my subtraction answer?

The best way is addition check: add your answer to the number you subtracted. If you get the original number back, you're correct! Like $34 + 23 = 57$ ✓

Two-Digit Subtraction with Column Alignment

$\begin{aligned} &57 \\ -& \\ &23 \\ &\underline{\phantom{776}} & \\ \end{aligned}$

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations

00:00 Solve

00:03 Each time we calculate subtraction of 2 digits, and then we substitute

00:06 We'll start by subtracting ones from ones, and substitute in ones

00:10 We'll subtract tens from tens, and substitute in tens

00:14 And this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution

Understand the problem

$\begin{aligned} &57 \\ -& \\ &23 \\ &\underline{\phantom{776}} & \\ \end{aligned}$

Step-by-step solution

To solve this vertical subtraction problem, follow these steps:

Step 1: Identify the digits in the tens and units places.
The numbers are $57$ and $23$ .
Step 2: Start with the units place digits:
The units place in $57$ is $7$ , and in $23$ it is $3$ .
Subtract $7 - 3$ to get $4$ .
Step 3: Move to the tens place digits:
The tens place in $57$ is $5$ , and in $23$ it is $2$ .
Subtract $5 - 2$ to get $3$ .
Step 4: Combine the results:
The difference from the tens place is $30$ , and from the units place is $4$ .

Thus, the answer to $57 - 23$ is:

$34$

Final Answer

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

Column Rule: Always align digits by place value in vertical format
Technique: Start from units place: 7 - 3 = 4, then tens: 5 - 2 = 3
Check: Add your answer to the smaller number: 34 + 23 = 57 ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Misaligning digits in different columns
Don't put the 3 from 23 under the 5 from 57 = wrong column placement! This makes you subtract wrong digits and get incorrect answers. Always align units under units and tens under tens.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

$\begin{aligned} &97 \\ -& \\ &63 \\ &\underline{\phantom{776}} & \\ \end{aligned}$ $$

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why do I start with the units place instead of tens?

Starting with the units place (ones column) is the standard method because it helps you handle borrowing if needed. This creates a consistent pattern that works for all subtraction problems!

What if the bottom digit is bigger than the top digit?

When the bottom digit is larger, you need to borrow from the next column to the left. For example, in problems like 52 - 27, you'd borrow 1 ten from the tens place.

How do I make sure my columns are lined up correctly?

Use the place value positions as your guide! The rightmost digits (units) should be directly under each other, then tens under tens. Think of it like a building - each floor must be perfectly stacked.

Can I do this problem from left to right instead?

While you could subtract left to right, the standard right-to-left method is much more reliable, especially when you need to borrow. Stick with units first, then tens.

How can I double-check my subtraction answer?

The best way is addition check: add your answer to the number you subtracted. If you get the original number back, you're correct! Like $34 + 23 = 57$ ✓

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