How to Compare 4-Digit Numbers and Put Them in Order
Hi, 3rd graders! Today we’re going to learn how to compare big numbers and put them in order from greatest to least. We’ll be working with 4-digit numbers. Let’s get started!
What is a 4-Digit Number?
A 4-digit number has four digits, like 1234 or 9876. Each digit has a special place value:
- The first digit is in the thousands place.
- The second digit is in the hundreds place.
- The third digit is in the tens place.
- The last digit is in the ones place.
For example, the number 3456 means:
- 3 in the thousands place (3,000)
- 4 in the hundreds place (400)
- 5 in the tens place (50)
- 6 in the ones place (6)
How to Compare 4-Digit Numbers
When you compare numbers, you want to figure out which one is bigger and which one is smaller. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the thousands place: Look at the first number. If one number has a bigger thousands digit, that number is the greatest.
Example: 4567 and 3567
- 4 is bigger than 3, so 4567 is the greatest.
- If the thousands digits are the same, check the hundreds place.
Example: 4567 and 4537
- The thousands are both 4, so now look at the hundreds. 5 is bigger than 3, so 4567 is still the greatest.
- If the hundreds are the same, check the tens place.
- If the tens are the same, check the ones place.
More Questions on Order 4 digit numbers from greatest to least