Making Change Examples in Math
Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Making Change.
This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Math.
Concept Recap
Calculating how much money is returned to a buyer when they pay more than the purchase price.
If a toy costs \3.75 and you hand the cashier \5.00, making change means figuring out the gap between what you paid and what it costs—like counting up from \3.75 to \5.00.
Read the full concept explanation →How to Use These Examples
- Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
- Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
- Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.
What to Focus On
Core idea: Change equals the amount paid minus the cost—it's subtraction applied to money.
Common stuck point: Subtracting across dollars and cents when borrowing is needed (e.g., \5.00 - \3.75).
Sense of Study hint: Count up from the cost to the amount paid in small jumps: first pennies to the next dime, then dimes and dollars.
Worked Examples
Example 1
easySolution
- 1 Amount paid: 50 cents.
- 2 Cost: 35 cents.
- 3 Change = \(50 - 35 = 15\) cents.
- 4 You get 15 cents back.
Answer
Example 2
mediumPractice Problems
Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.
Example 1
easyExample 2
mediumRelated Concepts
Background Knowledge
These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.