How it works
When you see a word problem that asks how many things there are 'in all', 'altogether', or 'total', you need to add the numbers together. Follow these steps:
- Read the Problem Carefully: Look for what is being counted and what question is being asked.
- Find the Numbers: Find the numbers in the problem that you need to add.
- Set Up the Addition Sentence: Write the numbers with a plus sign between them.
- Add the Numbers: You can use objects, draw pictures, or use paper and pencil to add.
- Write Your Answer: Make sure to answer the question in a complete sentence.
Let's learn with a new example!
Worked example
Sam has 36 stickers. His friend gives him 15 more. How many stickers does Sam have now?
- 1
Find the numbers to add.
Sam starts with 36 stickers. He gets 15 more. So, we need to add 36 and 15.
- 2
Write the addition sentence.
We write: 36 + 15.
- 3
Add the numbers.
Start with the ones: 6 + 5 = 11. Put down 1 and carry over 1. Now add the tens: 3 + 1 = 4, plus the 1 you carried over is 5. So, the answer is 51.
- 4
Write the answer in a sentence.
Sam has 51 stickers now.
Answer
Sam has 51 stickers now.
Common mistakes
- 01
Adding only one number, not both.
Why: Sometimes students see just the first number and forget to add the second.
Avoid it: Circle or underline both numbers in the problem before you start.
- 02
Subtracting instead of adding.
Why: Some students get confused by the wording and subtract by mistake.
Avoid it: Look for words like 'in all', 'total', or 'altogether'—these usually mean add.
- 03
Not carrying over when adding ones place.
Why: Forgetting to carry when the ones add up to more than 9.
Avoid it: Remember to add the ones first, then carry over if needed.
Practice
Answers stay hidden
1.Mia has 24 crayons. She finds 13 more. How many crayons does she have now?
Show hint
Add 24 and 13. Start with the ones place.
Reveal answer
37
2.Ben has 58 marbles. He wins 22 more in a game. How many marbles does Ben have in all?
Show hint
Add 58 and 22. Don't forget to carry if needed.
Reveal answer
80
3.There are 46 apples in a basket. The teacher adds 35 more apples. How many apples are there now?
Show hint
Add 46 and 35. Add the ones, then the tens.
Reveal answer
81