Compare two-digit numbers
Being able to say which number is bigger, and why, gives your child a way to judge whether an answer makes sense, and it is the start of putting numbers in order. In 2nd grade the same reasoning compares three-digit numbers by looking at the hundreds first, and in 4th and 5th grade it extends to decimals. Everyday choices use it too, like deciding which of two prices is lower.
In this video, your child will learn to compare two-digit numbers.

The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.

Example 1
43 ? 28

Example 2
64 ? 67

Your child's turn
58 ? 85
The three key steps
- 1Compare the tens first; if they're the same, compare the ones.
- 2The open side faces the greater number.
- 3If both numbers are the same, use the equal sign.
Mistakes to listen for
- Looking at the ones digit first, deciding 29 is bigger than 41 because 9 is bigger than 1.
- Mixing up the > and < symbols, writing 35 > 53 when they mean that 53 is bigger.
- Comparing correctly out loud but writing the numbers in the wrong order, so the written statement says the opposite.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to comparing two-digit numbers with >, =, and < →
Is your child ready to practice what they've learned?
Bobby's Math Club offers unlimited practice for free.
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More 1st grade Numbers & Place Value, with questions your child answers along the way.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice comparing two-digit numbers with >, =, and <, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to comparing two-digit numbers with >, =, and < has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
Practice comparing two-digit numbers with >, =, and <
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on comparing two-digit numbers with >, =, and < and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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