Comparing and ordering large numbers
22 October 2026
Comparing and ordering large numbers is a key skill for the 11+ maths exam. It helps your child spot which numbers are bigger or smaller, even when they look very similar. This step-by-step example shows how to use the millions digit to put numbers in the right order.
Worked example
Put these numbers in order from smallest to largest:
2,305,800 9,450,120 7,015,600 3,999,999
First, look at the millions digit in each number.
2,305,800 has 2 million.
9,450,120 has 9 million.
7,015,600 has 7 million.
3,999,999 has 3 million.
The smallest millions digit is 2, so 2,305,800 is the smallest.
Next is 3,999,999 because it has 3 million.
Then comes 7,015,600 with 7 million.
The largest is 9,450,120 with 9 million.
The correct order is:
2,305,800 3,999,999 7,015,600 9,450,120.
The correct answer is 2,305,800 3,999,999 7,015,600 9,450,120.
| Number | Millions Digit |
|---|---|
| 2,305,800 | 2 |
| 3,999,999 | 3 |
| 7,015,600 | 7 |
| 9,450,120 | 9 |
After working through this example, your child will be able to compare numbers up to 10 million with confidence. They will also know what to look for when answering similar questions on maths.com uk or in their practice papers.
