Count Backward From Any Number

Count backward from a starting number

When you count backward, each next number is 1 less than the one before it. This is the same as subtracting 1 each time.

Method

1. Find the starting number.
2. Say the number just before it. If you are at 8, the next backward number is 7.
3. Keep subtracting 1 for each blank in the sequence.
4. Write the numbers in order from the starting point backward.

Example

If the sequence starts at 12 and you need to continue backward:

• 12, 11, 10, 9, 8

Helpful check

Look at your answers and make sure each number is exactly one less than the one before it. If you move from 15 to 13, you skipped 14, so check again.

Tip

Counting backward gets easier if you say the numbers out loud: “12, 11, 10, 9...” This helps keep the order correct and prevents skipping numbers.