Comparing and Ordering Numbers

To identify whether one number is smaller or greater, we apply the process of comparing numbers. Here students will learn the process of comparing and ordering numbers.

In this learning concept, the students will also learn to

Compare two numbers.
Evaluate the ascending order number.
Identify the number in descending order.

Each concept is explained to class 4 maths students using illustrations, examples, and mind maps. Students can assess their learning by solving the two printable worksheets given at the page’s end.

Download the comparing numbers worksheet for class 4 and check the solutions to the comparing numbers questions for class 4 provided in PDF format.

Compare Two Numbers

Comparing numbers is the process to identify if a number is greater or lesser or equal to another number.

Following are the symbols used for comparing numbers:

Examples:

The number 15 is greater than 9. We can write it as: 15 > 9.
The number 21 is less than 32. We can write it as: 21 < 32.
The number 40 is equal to 40. We can write it as: 40 = 40.

Steps to Compare Numbers

Step 1: Count the number of digits.

Step 2: If the number of digits is different, the number with more digits is greater than the number with fewer digits.

Step 3: If the number of digits is the same, start comparing the digits from the extreme left till you get the unequal digits.

Example

Question 1: Compare the numbers 23,567 and 23,786.

Answer:

Step 1: the numbers have 5 digits. On comparing the digits from the extreme left it is observed that the first unequal digit is at hundreds place.

Step 2: The number 23,567 has 5 at hundreds place and 23,786 has 7 at hundreds place. Since 7 is greater than 5, the number 23,786 is greater than 23,567. Hence, the correct answer is 23,567 < 23,786.

Question 2: Compare the numbers 54,684 and 4684.

Answer: The number 54,684 has 5 digits, and 4684 has 4 digits. We know that the number with more digits is bigger. Therefore, the correct answer is 54,684 > 4684.

Comparing and Ordering Numbers:

Ordering numbers means arranging the numbers in a specific order.

The numbers can be arranged in ascending order and descending order.

Ascending Order Numbers:

Ascending order means arranging the given numbers from smaller to bigger.

Example