Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing), especially when zeros are involved in the minuend, or they rush through problems and make careless errors. Others have difficulty connecting subtraction to real-world contexts or understanding that subtraction is the inverse of addition. Some students also lack fluency with basic subtraction facts (like 10 - 3 or 15 - 7), which slows down their work on larger problems and affects confidence.

Varsity Tutors connects students with tutors who diagnose exactly where subtraction understanding breaks down—whether it's fact fluency, regrouping, or applying subtraction to word problems. Tutors use personalized 1-on-1 instruction to reteach concepts using multiple strategies and representations (concrete objects, drawings, number lines, algorithms) so your child truly understands, not just memorizes. Regular practice with immediate feedback helps build both accuracy and confidence.

In the first session, a tutor will assess your child's current subtraction skills through informal conversation and problem-solving to identify specific gaps and strengths. They'll discuss your child's learning style, any anxiety around math, and your goals—whether it's catching up, building confidence, or getting ahead. From there, the tutor creates a personalized plan and begins instruction tailored to your child's needs and pace.

The most effective practice combines multiple strategies: starting with concrete materials (blocks, counters) before moving to drawings and number lines, then abstract algorithms. Spaced repetition—practicing subtraction facts over several days rather than all at once—improves retention. Real-world contexts ("You have 12 cookies and eat 5—how many are left?") help students see why subtraction matters, and regular low-stakes quizzes or games keep practice engaging without creating anxiety.

With consistent, targeted tutoring, many students show noticeable improvement in 4-6 weeks—especially if they're practicing between sessions. Mastery of regrouping and multi-digit subtraction usually takes longer, often 8-12 weeks depending on the student's starting point and how frequently they meet with a tutor. The key is regular, focused practice combined with personalized instruction that addresses your child's specific misconceptions.

Yes. Tutors who work with students in Sacramento are familiar with California State Standards and the approaches used across the district's 27 school districts. Whether your child's school emphasizes number lines, area models, or traditional algorithms, tutors adapt their instruction to align with what's being taught in the classroom while using additional strategies to strengthen understanding.

Simply tell Varsity Tutors about your child's grade level, current subtraction challenges, and scheduling preferences. We'll match your child with a tutor who has experience teaching subtraction and understands your child's learning needs. You can start with a single session to see if it's a good fit, then build a regular tutoring schedule that works for your family.