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What is Arithmetic?

Now that we have the basics of numbers and counting out of the way, it is time for you do work with those numbers. Arithmetic is the starting point for maths and the point where you start to take numbers and combine them. You have already heard of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Those four basic activities or operations are each one part of arithmetic.

When do You use Arithmetic?

You use arithmetic all over the place. When you wake up in the morning and look at the clock, you might see that it is 6:45. You know you have fifteen minutes until you need to take a shower. You know there are fifteen minutes because you subtracted. When you go to school and see there are twenty pieces of candy for ten students, you can figure out that each student gets two pieces. You know that answer because of division. Arithmetic is everywhere. If anyone tells you they don’t use maths as an adult, they are lying. We all use maths every day of our lives.

Start With the Basics

It’s time to get started. Before we jump into addition, let’s take a few minutes to look at the term 'operations'. You can get a quick overview at the ways addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are related. If you think you’re ready and you just want to solve some problems, jump to the addition section.

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