Compare three-digit numbers
Telling which of two numbers is bigger helps your child judge whether an answer makes sense. Putting numbers in order is something every later grade relies on: in 3rd grade it supports rounding to the nearest 10 or 100, and in 4th and 5th grade the same biggest-place-first thinking compares thousands and decimals. Everyday choices use it too, such as picking which of two books has more pages.
In this video, your child will learn to compare three-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
425 ? 389
Example 2
352 ? 356
Your child's turn
561 ? 538
The three key steps
- 1Compare the hundreds first.
- 2Same? Then tens, then ones.
- 3Open side faces the greater.
Mistakes to listen for
- Comparing digits from the right, deciding 298 is greater than 301 because 8 ones beats 1 one.
- Assuming a number with bigger digits is bigger, such as believing 199 is more than 210.
- Mixing up the > and < symbols, so the written statement says the opposite of what they meant.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to comparing three-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 2nd 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 three-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 three-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 three-digit numbers with >, =, and <
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on comparing three-digit numbers with >, =, and < and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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