Comparing 3-Digit Numbers
We compare three-digit numbers by looking at the hundreds digit first, then tens, then ones if needed.
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To compare two 3-digit numbers, we first compare the hundreds digit - the number with the bigger hundreds digit is greater, regardless of the other digits.
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Remember these!
- Compare hundreds digit first.
- If hundreds are equal, compare tens.
- If tens are equal, compare ones.
- 452 > 398 because 4 hundreds is more than 3 hundreds.
- The hundreds digit matters most in 3-digit comparisons.
- This method works for any size number.
- Comparing step-by-step avoids mistakes.
- Bigger hundreds digit always means a bigger number.