Free Grade 4 word problems for addition and subtraction. Build problem-solving skills with real-life examples and clear explanations.
A word problem is a math question written as a story or situation.
Instead of just numbers, kids read a scenario and decide what operation to use to find the answer.
✍🏽 Example:
“Lucy has 45 stickers. She gives 17 to her friend. How many stickers does Lucy have left?”
Operation: Subtraction
Answer: 45 − 17 = 28 stickers
Understand the question and identify the numbers and operations.
Underline numbers and keywords like total, left, more, fewer, altogether.
Visual aids make it easier for children to see the problem.
Translate the story into an addition or subtraction equation.
Always ask: “Does this answer make sense?”
“Tom has 36 marbles. He wins 15 more. How many marbles does he have now?” → Addition
“A baker made 72 cupcakes. He sold 28. How many are left?” → Subtraction
“Sara read 48 pages on Monday and 36 on Tuesday. How many pages did she read in total?” → Addition
Strengthen mental math skills
Develop problem-solving and reasoning
Connect math to real-life situations
Build confidence for higher grade math
👉🏽Explore our Children’s Math Workbooks for Grade 4 practice.
Word problems are a fun and practical way to apply addition and subtraction in everyday situations.
Practicing regularly helps kids think critically and solve problems confidently.
✨Turn math into a story — and learning into fun! ✨