Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing) when the ones digit in the bottom number is larger than the ones digit in the top number, or they have difficulty understanding what subtraction means conceptually—that it represents taking away, finding a difference, or comparing quantities. Some students also rush through problems without checking their work or lose track of place value when working with larger numbers. Personalized instruction helps identify exactly where a student gets stuck and builds understanding from that point.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who understand North Carolina's Standard Course of Study and how subtraction is taught across Raleigh's 17 school districts. Tutors work with your student's specific grade level and curriculum, whether that's foundational subtraction in early elementary, multi-digit subtraction in upper elementary, or subtraction within algebra and advanced math courses. This ensures tutoring complements what's happening in the classroom.

During the first session, a tutor will assess your student's current understanding of subtraction—whether they grasp the concept, can perform basic problems, or struggle with regrouping and larger numbers. The tutor will ask diagnostic questions and work through a few problems together to pinpoint specific gaps. From there, they'll create a personalized plan to build confidence and skills at your student's pace.

Effective strategies include using visual models (number lines, base-ten blocks) to build conceptual understanding, practicing regrouping with clear step-by-step processes, and using repeated practice with immediate feedback to build automaticity. Tutors also help students develop self-checking habits, like using addition to verify subtraction answers. Consistent, focused practice over time—rather than cramming—leads to lasting improvement and confidence.

Many students show noticeable improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent tutoring, especially when they receive personalized instruction targeting their specific challenges. However, the timeline depends on the student's starting point, how frequently they meet with a tutor, and how much they practice between sessions. With regular sessions and reinforcement at home, students often gain confidence and accuracy much faster than they would without targeted support.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have expertise in elementary and middle school mathematics, including deep knowledge of how subtraction builds foundational number sense. Many tutors have teaching experience, degrees in mathematics or education, or specialized training in math instruction. All tutors are vetted for subject expertise and teaching ability, ensuring your student gets quality instruction tailored to their learning style.

Ask your tutor for specific strategies and practice problems you can use between sessions—consistency at home reinforces what's learned in tutoring. Keep practice sessions short and positive, celebrate progress, and avoid frustration. You can also incorporate subtraction into everyday activities like cooking, shopping, or games. Your tutor can guide you on how to help without creating pressure, making home practice a natural extension of learning.