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🧮 Multi-Step Addition and Subtraction Problems

Take on problems that need several steps, like tracking a bottle drive toward its goal. Decide when to work in your head, when to use paper, and be ready to explain why.

3
lessons
~15 min
to learn
🔢 Math
subject
Ages 6–12
level
Start the course →

What you’ll learn

  1. Reading the Whole ProblemRecognise multi-step addition and subtraction problems and name the calculations hidden inside.A multi-step problem needs more than one calculation. In the bottle drive you first add the two weeks (12,450 + 8,372 = 20,822), then subtract from the goal (25,000 - 20,822 = 4,178). Naming the steps before you start keeps you from getting lost.
  2. Head or Paper?Decide between mental and written methods for each step and explain the reasoning.Friendly numbers like 7,000 + 3,000 are fastest in your head, while messy sums like 6,834 + 2,979 are safer in neat columns. Spotting near numbers such as 9,998 lets you round and adjust. The skill is matching the method to the numbers and being able to say why.
  3. The Bottle DriveSolve a multi-step word problem by adding, then subtracting, and check the answer is reasonable.Step 1: add the weeks with columns to get 20,822. Step 2: subtract from the 25,000 goal to find 4,178 still needed. Finally, sense-check: a few thousand short of the target feels right. Patience plus a smart method for each step wins.

Questions this course answers

What makes a problem 'multi-step'?

Multi-step problems hide two or more calculations inside one question.

For the bottle drive, what must you work out FIRST?

You need the running total before you can compare it to the goal.

Which sum is smartest to do in your head?

Round thousands add instantly: 7,000 + 3,000 = 10,000.

Why is choosing a method a skill worth learning?

Matching the method to the numbers saves time and avoids errors.

After finding an answer, what's a good final check?

Sense-checking catches slips before they cost marks.

Grounded in trusted sources

  • Khan Academy
  • BBC Bitesize - Maths
  • NRICH - University of Cambridge
  • Math is Fun

Every Wunder lesson is built from real, reputable sources — never invented.

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