Missing Numbers in Subtraction Worksheets
Practice missing starting numbers and missing subtrahends within 20. Free printable subtraction worksheets with answers and a worked example.
Make your worksheet
Missing Numbers in Subtraction Worksheets
Find the missing number, then check the complete subtraction equation.
Name: ____________________ Date: __________
- 1.
___ - 3 = 3
- 2.
19 - ___ = 15
- 3.
___ - 4 = 14
- 4.
20 - ___ = 5
- 5.
___ - 8 = 12
- 6.
12 - ___ = 5
- 7.
18 - ___ = 6
- 8.
15 - ___ = 6
- 9.
19 - ___ = 8
- 10.
___ - 9 = 8
- 11.
18 - ___ = 8
- 12.
___ - 5 = 8
Print at actual size or 100%. Answer keys start on a new page. Changing the set changes the order and selection; familiar facts may appear again.
A worked example
___ - 5 = 8
Answer: 13
The starting number must include the 8 left and the 5 removed: 8 + 5 = 13. Check: 13 - 5 = 8.
How to use these worksheets
The missing number appears before or after the minus sign. Compare the two cases: a missing starting number can be found by adding; a missing amount taken away can be found by subtracting the result from the start.
Watch for this
Do not use the same operation for every blank. Compare ___ - 5 = 8 with 13 - ___ = 8 and check each complete equation.
Choose the next skill
Use easier facts for a warm-up, or connect this skill to another kind of question.
Printing and practice questions
Are the worksheets and answer keys free?
Yes. Generate and download these individual worksheets without an account. You can use them at home, in your classroom, or with your tutoring students.
Can I make a different worksheet next time?
Choose New questions for another set. Save settings remembers the question count, paper size, and answer-key choice on this device. It does not store learner names or progress.
Will this print on my paper size?
Select A4 or US Letter before downloading. Print the PDF at actual size. You can omit the answer key, or print only the question pages for learners.
What should I do if the questions are too difficult?
Start with six questions and work through the example together. Use the linked prerequisite skills or physical counters before trying another set. These are practice materials, not a diagnostic assessment.
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