Add and subtract numbers up to 1,000: written methods
30 October 2026
When children learn to add and subtract numbers up to 1,000, using written methods makes calculations clear and manageable. Setting out numbers in columns helps your child see each step and understand how carrying works.
Worked example
Add 245 and 387 using written addition.
Line up the numbers in columns:
245 + 387
Step 1: Ones:
Add the ones digits: 5 + 7 = 12.
Write 2 in the ones column. Carry 1 to the tens column.
Step 2: Tens:
Add the tens digits plus the carried 1: 4 + 8 + 1 = 13.
Write 3 in the tens column. Carry 1 to the hundreds column.
Step 3: Hundreds:
Add the hundreds digits plus the carried 1: 2 + 3 + 1 = 6.
Write 6 in the hundreds column.
The correct answer is 632.
| Step | Calculation | Result | Carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ones | 5 + 7 | 12 | Carry 1 to tens |
| Tens | 4 + 8 + 1 | 13 | Carry 1 to hundreds |
| Hundreds | 2 + 3 + 1 | 6 | — |
Key insight: Once your child can follow each stage in written addition, they will spot patterns in how numbers build up and carry over. The same approach works for many sums up to 1,000, and similar questions are ready for practice.
