Addition
Addition is the process of combining two or more numbers to find their total, called the sum. It is one of the four basic math operations.
Addition Formula
Addend + Addend = Sum
The order of addends does not change the sum (Commutative Property).
Concept Explanation
When we add numbers, we are counting how many things there are altogether. The numbers being added are called addends, and the result is called the sum.
Addition can be done in any order — 3 + 5 gives the same answer as 5 + 3. This is called the Commutative Property of Addition.
You can also add three or more numbers by grouping them in any way. For example, (2 + 3) + 4 = 2 + (3 + 4) = 9. This is the Associative Property.
Word problems use addition when you see clue words like: "in all," "total," "altogether," "combined," "sum," or "how many more are there now."
Worked Examples
Add the ones column
7 + 6 = 13. Write 3, carry 1.
Add the tens column
4 + 3 + 1 (carried) = 8.
Combine
47 + 36 = 83.
Answer: 83
Key Terms
Addend
Any number being added. In 4 + 6, both 4 and 6 are addends.
Sum
The result of adding two or more numbers. 4 + 6 = 10, so 10 is the sum.
Commutative Property
Changing the order of addends does not change the sum. 3 + 7 = 7 + 3.
Carrying
When the sum of a column is 10 or more, carry the tens digit to the next column.
Word Problem
A math problem written in sentence form that requires you to choose and apply an operation.
About This Topic
You just studied
Addition