An easy question on sum and difference for P1–P2, with a step-by-step solution, diagrams and the answer. A regular in primary maths competitions such as the Hua Xia Cup, from the P1 and P2 first rounds to the P5 finals.
The question
Ming has 28 stickers and May has 4.
Ming wants to give May some, so that they both have the same number.
How many stickers should Ming give May?
Show the hints (2)
💡Hint 1: How many more does Ming have?
💡Hint 2: Each one Ming gives away: he has 1 fewer and May has 1 more. How much does the gap shrink?
Worked solution
Have a go first, then read the solution step by step.
1.Ming has 28 − 4 = 24 more.
2.Split the extra into two halves: 24 ÷ 2 = 12 each.
3.Ming gives May one half: Ming has 12 fewer and May 12 more, so the gap shrinks by 12 + 12 = 24 — now they're equal. Ming gives 12.
4.Check: 28 − 12 = 16 and 4 + 12 = 16 — the same ✓
⚠️Common mistake: giving all 24. Then May would have 24 more than Ming.
Play more like this in Numsprite (unlimited questions, instant marking) →A free maths game: every level free from Easy to Expert (★ to ★★★★), unlimited questions, no download