Comparing Numbers
Use <, > and = to say which number is smaller, larger or equal.
Key idea
Use <, > and = to say which number is smaller, larger or equal.
In depth
To compare, line up place values and look from the left. The first place where the digits differ decides which number is larger. The symbols < and > point their small end at the smaller number.
Worked example
Compare 3,472 and 3,498. Thousands and hundreds match (3 and 4), tens differ: 7 < 9, so 3,472 < 3,498.
Formula
Real-world uses
- Choosing the cheaper pack size
- Checking whether a score beats a target
- Comparing exam marks
Common mistake
Reading the symbol backwards. Think of it as a mouth that eats the larger number.
How to learn this
- Read the key idea and say it in your own words.
- Work through the worked example, then try a similar problem.
- Use the interactive lesson’s visual and mini-quiz to check the pattern.
Frequently asked questions
What is Comparing Numbers?
Use <, > and = to say which number is smaller, larger or equal. It is a topic at the beginner level in Arithmetic & Number Sense.
What is the formula for Comparing Numbers?
The key formula is a < b, a > b, a = b.
Where is Comparing Numbers used in real life?
Real-world examples: Choosing the cheaper pack size; Checking whether a score beats a target; Comparing exam marks.
What should I learn before Comparing Numbers?
Make sure you are comfortable with Number Line, the previous topic in Arithmetic & Number Sense.
What is a common mistake with Comparing Numbers?
Reading the symbol backwards. Think of it as a mouth that eats the larger number.
How can I practise Comparing Numbers?
Open the interactive lesson, play with the visual, then answer the three-question mini-quiz. Getting two right marks the topic complete.
What comes after Comparing Numbers?
Move on to Ordering Numbers next.
Related beginner topics in Arithmetic & Number Sense
- Counting & Cardinality – Assigning one number word to each object to find how many there are.
- Place Value – The value of a digit depends on its position: ones, tens, hundreds and so on.
- Number Line – A line where numbers are placed in order at equal spacing to compare and add them.
- Ordering Numbers – Arranging numbers from least to greatest or the reverse.
- Even and Odd Numbers – Even numbers divide by 2 with no remainder; odd numbers leave remainder 1.
- Skip Counting – Counting forward by a fixed step such as 2s, 5s or 10s; the root of multiplication.