Maths | Written Algorithm

Written Algorithm is a problem-solving strategy in maths, it is the step-by-step process of adding, subtraction, multiplying or dividing. Place Value looks at the value of each digit in a number and uses that knowledge to solve an equation.

To use written algorithm for addition, the biggest number in the equation is at the top, and the smallest number is under the bigger number. The numbers are lined up, similar to the numbers in a place value house. A problem like 1278+2611 can be solved with written algorithm by adding the ones first: 1+8=9. Then the tens: 70+10=80. After that, the hundreds are added: 200+600+800, and then the thousands: 1000+2000. 2000+800+80+9= 2889.

To use place value for addition, each digit in the numbers are sorted into ones, tens, hundreds, thousands etc. Add the ones, 2+7+9. Then, the tens: 40+70=110. However, there can’t be 11 tens in the tens column, so the hundred moves to the next column. Next, the hundreds are added, 600+800+100=1500. There can’t be 15 hundreds in the hundreds column, so the thousand moves to the thousands column. After that, add the thousands. 7000+3000+1000=11000. There can’t be 11 thousands in the thousands column, so the ten thousand moves to the ten thousands column.

To use written algorithm for subtraction, the biggest number in the equation is at the top, and the smallest number is under the bigger number. The numbers are lined up, similar to the numbers in a place value house. First, subtract 1000 from the 7000 to make 6000, and convert that thousand to the 600 to make 1600. After that, subtract 100 from 1600 to make 1500, and convert that hundred to 40 which becomes 140. Next, take away 800 from 1500 to make 700. Subtract a ten from 140 to make 130, and give that ten to the 2, which becomes 12. Finally, 12-7=5.

Written algorithm is a good strategy to use when solving complex equations, or simple problems. When understood, solving equations with algorithm can become easy. Place Value is a good strategy to use when adding and subtracting, it can also be used to multiply and divide. Place Value looks at the digits within a number to solve problems.

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