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Vertical Subtraction Puzzle: Missing Digits Edition

Worksheet Description

Find the missing numbers in the given subtraction maths problems. It is a number game that challenges the learner and also sharpens his subtraction skills

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The Worksheet

The in-browser, interactive worksheet will appear here...

Right to left problem flow

Click on the right extreme box in a problem panel to get started

The detailed description of the worksheet

A detailed note on this worksheet...

Introduction

This worksheet transforms traditional vertical subtraction into an engaging puzzle. Learners are asked to find missing digits in subtraction problems, turning each exercise into a number game that sharpens subtraction skills and logical thinking.

What Makes This a Subtraction Puzzle

Each problem is presented in a vertical format with two rows representing the minuend and the subtrahend, along with a third row for the difference.

Unlike standard subtraction problems, certain digits are missing from each row. Learners must carefully analyze the subtraction structure to determine which digits correctly complete the puzzle.

Right-to-Left Reasoning with Missing Digits

Subtraction is performed using the traditional right-to-left approach. The presence of missing digits requires learners to think backward and forward across place values while applying borrowing (regrouping) correctly.

This combination of vertical subtraction and missing information adds depth and encourages careful reasoning rather than routine calculation.

Configurable Worksheet Options

This is a configurable, online subtraction worksheet that adapts to different skill levels and learning goals.

  • Choose the number of digits in the minuend and the subtrahend
  • Choose to exclude the 1s or 0s from both the minuend and the subtrahend

Generate new puzzle variations with each configuration

Who This Worksheet Is For

This worksheet is suitable for learners who already understand vertical subtraction and are ready to deepen their skills through reasoning-based challenges.

It is ideal for learners who enjoy puzzles and want to strengthen both accuracy and analytical thinking in subtraction.

Online, Interactive, and Self-Correcting

This is an online, interactive subtraction worksheet where learners enter the missing digits directly into the input boxes.

Answers are checked instantly, allowing immediate feedback and correction. No printing or downloading is required.

Click on the green box in the first problem of the worksheet to get started!!