Math Drill Pages

Subtracting Decimals Worksheet

Eighteen decimal subtraction problems. Part A has 8 problems already in columns with the points lined up. Part B has 10 problems written across, where the two numbers often have different numbers of decimal places, like 7.8 − 6.43. Students rewrite them in columns, adding zeros where they need to. The answer key is on page 2.

Grade
Grade 5
Problems
18
Time
About 15 minutes
Standard
5.NBT.B.7
Download PDF (US Letter) Download PDF (A4)

Two pages: the worksheet, then the answer key. No sign-up needed.

Worksheet preview

Part A: Subtract in columns Line up the decimal points, then subtract.

  1. 46.17− 19.7926.38
  2. 35.5− 16.519.0
  3. 18.3− 06.511.8
  4. 56.26− 25.1131.15
  5. 25.96− 04.0221.94
  6. 50.9− 44.406.5
  7. 36.29− 11.7424.55
  8. 18.91− 12.3706.54

Part B: Line them up yourself Rewrite in columns, adding zeros where needed.

  1. 49 − 4.14 = 44.86
  2. 30.9 − 14 = 16.9
  3. 24.73 − 9.9 = 14.83
  4. 30.75 − 2.6 = 28.15
  5. 50 − 29.98 = 20.02
  6. 44.9 − 40.87 = 4.03
  7. 37.2 − 35.13 = 2.07
  8. 41.21 − 28.8 = 12.41
  9. 42.32 − 12.3 = 30.02
  10. 46 − 32.65 = 13.35

Tips for teachers and parents

  • Line up the decimal points first. Then subtract exactly as with whole numbers.
  • When the top number has fewer decimal places, add zeros: 7.8 − 6.43 becomes 7.80 − 6.43. Now there is a digit to subtract from in every column.
  • Regrouping works across the decimal point just like anywhere else: one tenth is ten hundredths.
  • Check by adding: the answer plus the number you subtracted should give the top number.

Common mistakes

  • Bringing the bottom digit straight down when the top place is empty, so 7.8 − 6.43 gives 1.43. Writing the zero prevents this.
  • Lining up the right-hand digits instead of the decimal points.

What to practice next

Multiplying decimals comes next, where the decimal points no longer line up.

Frequently asked questions

How do you subtract decimals with different numbers of places?

Add zeros to the end of the shorter number so both have the same number of decimal places, line up the points, then subtract. 7.8 is the same as 7.80.

Are there any negative answers?

No. The first number is always bigger, so every answer is positive.

Is there an answer key?

Yes, page 2 has every answer.