Two-Digit Subtraction Game

Subtract a two-digit number from a larger one under 100, such as 72 − 38. Some questions need regrouping.

Choose a mode

Type answers on your keyboard, or tap the number pad.

How to play

  1. Choose the 60-second challenge or untimed practice, then press Start.
  2. Type each answer on your keyboard or tap the number pad. It’s checked as soon as you’ve typed enough digits, or press ✓.
  3. Get one wrong and you’ll see the right answer, and the question comes back a little later.
  4. At the end, check your score and the facts to practise again.

What it practises

  • Subtracting two-digit numbers within 100
  • Mental subtraction strategies
  • Regrouping (borrowing)

Level: Grades 2–3 (ages 7–9)

Tips for two-digit subtraction

Round and adjust: 72 − 38 = 72 − 40 + 2 = 34.

Count up when the numbers are close: for 61 − 57, count 57 → 60 (3) → 61 (1), so the answer is 4.

Questions and answers

What is regrouping in subtraction?

Regrouping (also called borrowing) is needed when the ones digit you’re taking away is bigger. In 72 − 38, you can’t take 8 from 2, so one ten becomes ten ones: 12 − 8 = 4.

What’s the best mental strategy?

It depends on the numbers. Rounding works well when you’re taking away a number close to a ten (like 49), and counting up works well when the two numbers are close together.

How big are the numbers in this game?

You start from a number between 20 and 99 and take away a number between 10 and that number, so answers are never below zero.

More subtraction games

See all subtraction games →