Money Math
⭐ MasteredAdding and subtracting money helps us shop wisely. Change is what you get back: change = paid − price.
The first coins were made around 2,600 years ago.
All about Money Math
Money maths means adding, subtracting, multiplying and comparing amounts of money. Prices are usually written with a currency symbol and two decimal places, such as £2. 50 or $4. 99. Always keep track of which coins and notes you have.
Change is the money you get back when you pay more than the price. Counting up from the price is another quick method.
In the UK, money is counted in pounds and pence, and there are 100 pence in a pound. A coin worth 20 pence is worth one fifth of a pound.
Adding up your shopping before you pay helps you check the total is right.
🎮 Try it yourself!
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👀 What the animation shows
This animation shows coins and notes being added up and handed over at a shop counter. Watch the total grow as each coin is added, and how the change is worked out by subtracting the price from the money paid.
Real-life uses of Money Math
- Checking that you get the right change at a shop
- Comparing prices to find the best value
- Saving pocket money for something you want
Frequently asked questions about Money Math
How do you work out change?
Subtract the price from the amount paid. If you pay £5 for a £3.20 item, you get back £1.80.
What is the best way to count change?
Start with the price and count up to the amount paid, adding each coin or note as you go.
How do you work out a total of several items?
Add up the prices. For several of the same item, multiply the price by the number you need.