Three-Digit Subtract by 20s

This subtraction worksheet helps students build fluency subtracting 20 from a range of three-digit numbers. Learners apply base-ten understanding to reduce numbers by two tens, strengthening mental computation skills and reinforcing how the tens place changes within larger values.

Instructional Objectives

• Skill Focus (Grades 3-4): Subtract 20 from three-digit numbers accurately using mental math strategies.
• Conceptual Understanding (Grades 3-4): Understand how subtracting two tens affects the tens place while the hundreds and ones remain unchanged.
• Algebraic Reasoning (Grade 4): Recognize and apply base-ten patterns when subtracting multiples of twenty from larger numbers.
• Curriculum Alignment (Grades 3-4): Supports three-digit number operations, subtraction with multiples of twenty, mental computation in base ten, and accuracy-focused problem-solving standards.

The horizontal format encourages efficient reasoning without reliance on written algorithms, helping students internalize predictable number patterns. Regular practice builds confidence and prepares learners for more complex, multi-step subtraction involving regrouping.

Learning Benefits

• Builds fluency with subtracting multiples of twenty
• Reinforces strong base-ten and place-value understanding
• Encourages quick, accurate mental computation
• Effective for warm-ups, independent practice, or readiness skill building

This printable worksheet provides focused, confidence-building practice that helps students master subtracting 20 from three-digit numbers while strengthening mental math skills and readiness for advanced subtraction strategies.

This worksheet is part of our Subtract by 10s and 20s Worksheets collection.