- 21 Jul, 2025
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- 2 Mins Read
Math Word Problems Made Easy: Addition and Subtraction Keywords for Kids
Solving math word problems can feel tricky at first, but once you know the keywords, it becomes so much easier! Whether you’re a student or a parent helping your child, learning to spot the right clue words is the first step to solving any word problem like a math detective.
In this blog, we’ll explore addition and subtraction keywords, show how they work in real problems, and even look at mixed operation word problems that combine both!
Why Are Keywords Important?
Math word problems are like little stories with hidden clues. These clues or keywords help us figure out what operation to use. Should we add or subtract? Once you know what the words are telling you, solving becomes fun and fast!
Addition Keywords
Look out for these words that tell you to add:
- Total
- In all
- Altogether
- Sum
- Both
- Combined
- Together
- How many in total?
Example:
Sam has 6 marbles. His friend gives him 4 more. How many marbles does he have in total?
Keyword: “total”
What to do: Add → 6 + 4 = 10 marbles
Download📩
Grade 1 Addition Word Problem Exercises
Subtraction Keywords
These words tell you that something is being taken away, so you’ll need to subtract:
- Left
- How many more
- How many less
- Remain
- Difference
- Fewer
- Gave away
- Took away
- Lost
Example:
Lily had 10 candies. She gave 3 to her friend. How many does she have left?
Keyword: “left”
What to do: Subtract → 10 − 3 = 7 candies
Download📩
Grade 1 Subtraction Word Problem Exercises
Mixed Operations (Add & Subtract in One Problem)
Some problems are a bit trickier. They need both addition and subtraction. Don’t worry! Use the keywords to break the problem into steps.
Example:
Arjun bought 12 apples. He gave away 5 to his sister and later bought 3 more. How many apples does he have now?
Step 1: 12 − 5 = 7 (gave away)
Step 2: 7 + 3 = 10 apples
These kinds of problems test your understanding of the situation. Always read carefully and find all the keywords.
Common Confusions to Watch Out For
Sometimes, word problems may try to trick you. Here are a few tips:
- “More than” doesn’t always mean add. For example, “How many more does Tim have than John?” is actually subtraction!
- Look at the question at the end. It usually tells you what to find.
- Draw pictures or use number lines to make it easier.
Practice Makes Perfect!
Here are a few simple practice problems. Try them out!
- Emma has 8 pencils. She buys 6 more. How many pencils does she have in total?
- Ryan had 15 toy cars. He lost 7. How many does he have now?
- There are 10 red balloons and 5 blue balloons. How many balloons are there in all?
- A box had 20 cookies. 8 cookies were eaten. Then, 4 more were added. How many are there now?
Final Tips for Kids and Parents
- Highlight or underline keywords while reading.
- Always ask yourself: “Is this problem asking me to add or subtract?”
- Don’t rush! Take it step by step.
- Use real-life examples like snacks, toys, or pets to make practice fun!
Conclusion
Learning to solve word problems becomes so much easier when you know the right addition and subtraction keywords. With a little practice and attention to these clue words, any child can become a word problem whiz!
So next time you see a math story, grab your pencil, spot the keywords, and start solving!