Comparing numbers means deciding which number is greater, which is smaller, or if they are equal. This helps us understand the size of numbers and their place value up to one million.
Use the symbols < (less than), > (greater than), and = (equal to) when comparing numbers.
To identify the larger or smaller number, compare the digits in each place value starting from the left (hundred thousands place) until a difference is found.
Always compare from left to right because the leftmost digit has the greatest value.
Let’s practice comparing numbers by looking at their place values carefully.
Writing numbers one under the other can make comparisons easier, especially with larger numbers.
Keep these tips in mind to avoid mistakes when comparing numbers up to one million:
Think of < and > as the mouth of an alligator. The alligator always “eats” the larger number.