Introduction
This difference between numbers question is a common lower primary Maths problem that checks whether students know when to add and when to subtract. Many children see the word “difference” and subtract immediately, but in this difference between numbers question, we are given the smaller number and asked to find the bigger number instead.
The Question / Scenario Explanation
Source: P3 CHIJ 2022 Term 1
The difference between two numbers is \(293\). The smaller number is \(1768\). What is the other number?
Step-by-Step Solution / Explanation
Step 1: Understand what “difference” means
The word “difference” tells us how far apart two numbers are.
We are told:
Difference \(= 293\)
Smaller number \(= 1768\)
Since we need to find the other number, and the given number is the smaller one, we must add the difference.
Step 2: Add the difference to the smaller number
\(1768 + 293 = 2061\)
So the other number is \(2061\).
✅ Final Answer: \(2061\)
Step 3: Quick check
To check, subtract the smaller number from the bigger number:
\(2061 – 1768 = 293\)
This matches the given difference, so the answer is correct.
Key Concepts Students Must Know
- In a difference between numbers question, “difference” means the amount between two numbers.
- If the smaller number is given and you need the bigger number, add the difference.
- If the bigger number is given and you need the smaller number, subtract the difference.
- Always read carefully to see which number the question is asking for.
Exam Tips / Common Mistakes
Exam Tips
- Underline the words “difference”, “smaller number”, and “other number”.
- Ask yourself: “Am I finding the bigger number or the smaller number?”
- In this difference between numbers question, the smaller number is already given, so add the difference.
- Do a quick subtraction check at the end.
Common Mistakes
- Subtracting \(293\) from \(1768\) just because the word “difference” appears.
- Forgetting that the question asks for the other number, which must be bigger than \(1768\).
- Not checking whether the final answer gives a difference of \(293\).
- Mixing up which number is smaller and which number is larger.
Parent Insight
This difference between numbers problem is a good reminder that Maths is not only about calculation, but also about understanding the language of the question. Many children know how to add and subtract, but lose marks because they choose the wrong operation. Training this habit early helps students become more careful and confident in word problems.
Conclusion
To solve this difference between numbers question, we added the difference \(293\) to the smaller number \(1768\). So \(1768 + 293 = 2061\). The other number is \(2061\).
Visit our PSLE Maths homepage: Click Here…
Read more PSLE Maths worked examples here: Click Here…
Start here (limited slots weekly):
Free Trial: Click Here…
Enroll: Click Here…
Explore our main tuition brand approach here: Click Here… .