Subtraction fact · bridge through 10

13 − 4 = 9

Thirteen minus four is nine. This one crosses 10. Taking 4 away in two hops, with a stop at 10, is easier than counting back 4.

See 13 − 4

13 counters, 4 crossed out, 9 left.

Hop back to 10

  1. Take away 3 first, to land on 10: 13 − 3 = 10.
  2. 4 is 3 and 1, so there are 1 still to take away.
  3. 10 − 1 = 9, so 13 − 4 = 9.
Another way

Or think addition: 4 + 6 = 10, and 3 more makes 13. That's 6 + 3 = 9 altogether.

Its fact family

4, 9 and 13 go together, so learning one of these helps with all of them. See the family.

Practice 13 − 4 in a game

A fact sticks when a child has to pull it from memory again and again. In this game 13 − 4 keeps coming back between the other facts in its family.

Every round leans on 13 − 4

Free to play · no signup · works on phones, tablets and computers

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Quick quiz

13 − 4 FAQ

What is 13 − 4?

13 − 4 = 9. In words: thirteen minus four is nine.

How can I check 13 − 4 = 9?

Add back: 9 + 4 = 13. If the addition gives the number you started with, the subtraction is right.

What grade learns 13 − 4?

This is a first and second grade fact. Common Core has children subtract within 20 in first grade (1.OA.C.6) and do it fluently with mental strategies in second grade (2.OA.B.2).

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