Comparing Numbers: Find the Smallest 4-Digit Number
Hi 3rd Graders!
Today, we’re going to learn how to find the smallest number from a list of four-digit numbers. Ready? Let’s go!
Imagine we have these numbers:
- 4226
- 4227
- 4228
How do we figure out which one is the smallest?
Here’s an easy way to do it:
Start by looking at the first number of each. All of these numbers start with “4.” That means the first number is the same, so we move to the second number.
Now, we check the second number. What do you notice? They all have the number “2” in the second spot, too! That means we still haven’t found the smallest yet. So, let’s move to the third number.
The third number is also a “2” in each of these numbers! Wow, this is tricky. But don’t worry—we just need to go to the last number.
Finally, look at the last digit:
- 4226 ends in “6”
- 4227 ends in “7”
- 4228 ends in “8”
Which number is the smallest?
If we compare just the last numbers, we see that “6” is the smallest. So, 4226 is the smallest number!
Remember:
Whenever you compare numbers, start with the first digit and work your way to the right. Once you find a smaller number, you know which one is the smallest!