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subtraction

Subtraction challenge problems

Stretch learners with multi-step, missing-value and reasoning tasks.

Quick answer

Subtraction challenge problems are puzzles that use subtraction in more complex ways – like finding missing numbers, solving multi-step word problems, or working backwards from a result. These problems help you think more deeply about how subtraction works and how it connects to other maths.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to solve subtraction challenge problems that involve more than one step, missing numbers, or working backwards from a result. Success signs:
  • You can find the missing number in a subtraction sentence like 15 - ? = 7.
  • You can solve word problems that use subtraction more than once.
  • You can work out what number was taken away when you know the starting number and the result.
  • You can explain your thinking when solving a subtraction challenge.

Why this matters

Subtraction challenge problems help you grow your maths thinking skills. They are like puzzles that make you use subtraction in new ways. These skills are useful in everyday life – like working out how much money you have left after shopping, or how many more goals your team needs to win a game. In school, these problems prepare you for harder maths later, like algebra and word problems.

How it works

Subtraction challenge problems are more than just taking away. They might ask you to:
  • Find a missing number in a subtraction sentence
  • Solve a problem in more than one step
  • Work backwards from a result to find the starting number
Here’s how to solve them step by step:
  1. Read the whole problem carefully. Look for clues about what you need to find.
  2. Decide what you know and what you need to find out. Write it down if it helps.
  3. Use subtraction or addition to find the answer. Sometimes you might need to add to work backwards.
  4. Check your answer by putting it back into the problem.

Examples you can see

Let’s look at a few subtraction challenge problems with clear steps. Example 1: Finding the missing number Problem: 12 - ? = 5 Step 1: You know that 12 minus something equals 5. Step 2: You can think, “What number do I need to take away from 12 to get 5?” Step 3: You can count backwards from 12 to 5, or add 5 to 5 to get 10, then think, “What number added to 5 makes 12?” Step 4: The answer is 7 because 12 - 7 = 5. Example 2: Multi-step word problem Problem: Sarah had 20 stickers. She gave 6 to her brother and then gave 4 more to her friend. How many stickers does she have left? Step 1: Start with 20 stickers. Step 2: Take away 6 stickers. 20 - 6 = 14. Step 3: Take away 4 more stickers. 14 - 4 = 10. Step 4: Sarah has 10 stickers left. Example 3: Working backwards Problem: A number was subtracted from 25, and the result was 18. What was the number? Step 1: You know 25 minus some number = 18. Step 2: You can think, “What number do I add to 18 to get 25?” Step 3: 18 + 7 = 25. Step 4: The number that was subtracted was 7.

Try it as a mini adventure

The Great Treasure Hunt You are on a treasure hunt in a magical forest. You have a map that tells you:
  • Start at the big oak tree.
  • Walk 12 steps forward.
  • Then walk 5 steps back.
  • Then walk 8 more steps forward.
  • Finally, you must walk 3 steps back to find the treasure.
Question: How many steps forward did you take in total? How to solve: Step 1: Start at 0 steps. Step 2: Walk 12 steps forward: 0 + 12 = 12 Step 3: Walk 5 steps back: 12 - 5 = 7 Step 4: Walk 8 steps forward: 7 + 8 = 15 Step 5: Walk 3 steps back: 15 - 3 = 12 Answer: You took 12 steps forward in total.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking that 15 - 7 = 8 instead of 8. Why it happens: Confusing subtraction with addition. Fix: Count backwards or use your fingers to check the answer.
  • Mistake: Not reading the whole problem before solving. Why it happens: Rushing or not understanding what’s being asked. Fix: Read the problem twice and underline key numbers.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to check your answer. Why it happens: Thinking you’re done once you get an answer. Fix: Always put your answer back into the problem to see if it works.

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help your child with subtraction challenge problems by:
  • Reading the problem together and asking questions like, “What do you know?” and “What are you trying to find?”
  • Encouraging them to draw pictures or use objects to model the problem.
  • Letting them explain their thinking, even if they get the answer wrong at first.
  • Practising with real-life examples like counting change, sharing snacks, or measuring ingredients.
  • Not pushing too hard – let them take their time and make mistakes, which is part of learning.

Practice questions

  1. Solve: 18 - ? = 9
  2. There were 25 apples in a basket. 7 were eaten and then 5 more were eaten. How many apples are left?
  3. What number was subtracted from 30 if the result was 22?
  4. Solve: 14 - ? = 6
  5. Tom had 16 marbles. He gave some to his friend and had 9 left. How many did he give away?
Answers:
  1. 9
  2. 13 apples
  3. 8
  4. 8
  5. 7 marbles

FAQ

What is a subtraction challenge problem?

A subtraction challenge problem is a puzzle or word problem that uses subtraction in more complex ways, like finding missing numbers or solving multi-step problems.

How can I get better at solving these problems?

Practice by solving different types of problems. Use objects, draw pictures, and always check your answers. Talking through your thinking helps too!

Why do we need to solve subtraction challenge problems?

They help you think more deeply about maths and prepare you for harder problems in school. They also help in real life, like when you’re shopping or planning a trip.

Can subtraction problems be in stories?

Yes! Story problems are a great way to practice subtraction. They make maths feel real and fun.

What if I don’t understand the problem?

Read it slowly, ask for help, and try drawing a picture or using counters to help you understand what’s happening.