More and Less Examples in Math

Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of More and Less.

This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Math.

Concept Recap

Comparing two quantities to determine which is greater, which is smaller, or whether they are equal.

Like comparing piles of blocks—the taller pile has more. Or compare two rows one-to-one; the row with leftover has more.

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: Numbers can be ordered, and we can always tell which of two is bigger.

Common stuck point: Young learners struggle when the 'more' group is spread out and looks smaller, or the 'less' group is clustered and looks bigger. Counting beats visual estimation.

Sense of Study hint: Try lining up objects in two rows side by side, one-to-one — the row with leftovers has more.

Worked Examples

Example 1

easy
Use <, >, or = to compare: 47 ___ 74.

Solution

  1. 1
    Compare the tens digits first: 4 tens vs. 7 tens. Since 4 < 7, the tens digit of 47 is smaller.
  2. 2
    Therefore 47 < 74.
  3. 3
    Check: 47 is in the forties, 74 is in the seventies — confirmed.

Answer

47 < 74
When comparing whole numbers with the same number of digits, compare from the leftmost digit. The first place where the digits differ determines the order. Here, 4 tens < 7 tens, so 47 < 74.

Example 2

medium
Order from least to greatest: -3, 1, -10, 0, 7.

Practice Problems

Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.

Example 1

easy
Insert <, >, or = between each pair: (a) -5 ___ -2, (b) 0 ___ -1.

Example 2

medium
Which is greater, \frac{2}{3} or \frac{3}{4}? Use cross-multiplication to decide.
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Background Knowledge

These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.

counting