Subtraction Stories Worksheets

Build subtraction stories skills with small quantities, clear prompts and printable practice.

Before you begin

Recognize small groups and say counting numbers in order.

Worked example

There are 5 apples. 3 are taken away. How many apples remain?

  1. Cross out the number taken away, then count what remains.

Answer: 2

Check your result using the method in the example before moving to the next question.

Choose your level

These sets use the same exercise types and number ranges across level labels. Choose a fresh set for additional practice.

  • Easy: Start with the preview and follow the worked example.
  • Medium: Practice the same exercise types with a fresh numbered set.
  • Hard: Use another set to practice explaining and checking your answers.

Questions and answer calculations checked on 2026-09-17. How we check worksheets. Free for personal and classroom use.

Preview and print an easy set

Try six questions below, or choose a full set at your level.

1
There are 9 apples. 5 are taken away. How many apples remain?
2
There are 9 apples. 7 are taken away. How many apples remain?
3
There are 6 apples. 3 are taken away. How many apples remain?
4
There are 10 apples. 3 are taken away. How many apples remain?
5
There are 4 apples. 1 are taken away. How many apples remain?
6
There are 8 apples. 6 are taken away. How many apples remain?

Answer Key

1. 42. 23. 34. 75. 36. 2

Full worksheet sets