Grade 2 Subtraction Worksheets
Free printable subtraction practice for Grade 2 students. Generate problems, solve them on screen or paper, and download as PDF.
What Your Child Will Learn
In Grade 2, subtraction extends to two-digit numbers with and without regrouping (borrowing). Students learn to decompose numbers by place value, subtract the ones first, and regroup from the tens place when needed. They practise with base-ten blocks before transitioning to written methods.
Word problems become two-step, and students must decide whether to add or subtract. Mental math strategies — like subtracting by counting up from the smaller number — are introduced. Estimation helps students check whether their answers make sense.
Skills Covered
- Subtracting two-digit numbers with regrouping
- Subtracting multiples of 10 mentally
- Choosing between addition and subtraction in word problems
- Using estimation to verify subtraction answers
- Counting up as a subtraction strategy
- Modelling regrouping with base-ten blocks
Curriculum Aligned: Aligned with Strand B (Number): subtracting whole numbers to 100, with and without regrouping, using a variety of tools and strategies.
Parent Tip: If your child struggles with borrowing, practise with physical base-ten blocks first — trading a tens rod for ten ones makes the concept visual and concrete.
What your child will practice
- Subtraction Facts to 20Recall subtraction facts to 20 and demonstrate fluency with related addition facts.
- Two-Digit SubtractionSubtract two-digit numbers using various strategies including regrouping.
Free Practice Worksheets
Print, solve on paper, then upload a photo for instant AI grading and feedback.
Build confidence with approachable problems
Solve each problem. Take your time.
- 1.15 - 7 =
- 2.12 - 5 =
- 3.18 - 9 =
- 4.11 - 3 =
- 5.14 - 6 =
- 6.16 - 8 =
Full range of grade expectations
Solve each problem. Show your work.
- 1.Subtract: 82 - 35
- 2.Sarah had 15 cookies. She ate 7 of them. How many cookies does Sarah have left?
- 3.Which is greater: 40 - 12 or 50 - 25?
- 4.Look at the picture. How many apples are left after some were taken away? (Imagine 12 apples, with 5 crossed out)
- 5.John needs to read 50 pages of a book. He has already read 28 pages. How many more pages does John need to read?
- 6.Subtract: 100 - 58
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Create a Free AccountFrequently Asked Questions
Why does my child find subtraction harder than addition?
Subtraction is more abstract because it involves taking away or finding a difference. Using number lines, base-ten blocks, and real-world scenarios (like making change) helps build understanding.
What is subtraction with borrowing (regrouping)?
When the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit in a column, your child 'borrows' (regroups) from the next place value. This typically starts in Grade 2-3 and is mastered by Grade 4.
How can I help my child with subtraction at home?
Use everyday situations: counting change, measuring how much is left, and comparing quantities. Board games and card games that involve taking away are also great practice tools.