GCSE-readyWritten methods for the four operations
Calculators are not always allowed. Reliable written methods let you add, subtract, multiply and divide any whole numbers with confidence.
Column addition and subtraction
Work from the right. Carry when a column adds to 10 or more, and exchange when you need to borrow.
4 582 + 2 769 = 7 351
6 003 − 2 457 = 3 546
Long multiplication
346 × 27: 346 × 7 = 2 422 and 346 × 20 = 6 920.
Add the rows: 2 422 + 6 920 = 9 342.
| Th | H | T | O | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 346 × 7 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| 346 × 20 | 6 | 9 | 2 | 0 |
| Total | 9 | 3 | 4 | 2 |
Division and remainders
For a bigger divisor, use long division or chunking: take away easy multiples such as 10 × 28 = 280.
In a problem, decide what the remainder means: 145 people in minibuses of 8 is 18 r 1, so you need 19 minibuses.
Work out 924 ÷ 28.
- Chunk: 30 × 28 = 840, leaving 924 − 840 = 84
- 84 = 3 × 28
- 30 + 3 = 33
Answer: 33
Line up place values. Long multiplication: multiply by the ones, then the tens, then add. In division problems, think about what the remainder means.
2 more questions
Try each one, then tap to check.
Work out 3 657 + 4 875.
Show the answer
Answer: 8532
Line up the columns and carry: 8 532.
Work out 8 002 − 3 568.
Show the answer
Answer: 4434
Line up the columns and exchange across the zeros: 4 434.
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Checked by the GCSE-ready editorial team, 17 October 2026. Last updated 2 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us and we will fix it.