Make Ten Addition

Make Ten First

This method helps you add by turning one number into 10 before finishing the sum. It works best when one addend is close to 10.

Steps

1. Look for the number that can be completed to 10. For example, if you have 8 + 5, notice that 8 needs 2 more to become 10.
2. Split the other addend. Break 5 into 2 and 3.
3. Add to make 10. 8 + 2 = 10.
4. Add the rest. 10 + 3 = 13.

Why it works

You are rearranging the same total in a friendlier way. Instead of adding two smaller numbers separately, you create a full ten first, which is easier to work with.

Quick Check

After you finish, see whether your answer is reasonable by adding in another way or counting on from the larger number. For 8 + 5, count 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 to confirm the answer is 13.

Tip

Choose the addend that is closest to 10, and ask: “How many more do I need to make 10?”